Zesty Tadka Idli: South Indian Delight in Every Bite!
A delightful twist on traditional idlis, these savory treats blend South Indian flavors with a zesty tadka. Perfectly steamed rava or rice idli are lightly seasoned and mixed with the Tadka. Tadka Idli is not just a snack but a quick-fix culinary delight that satisfies cravings in minutes. Whether for...
Ingredients
Ingredients for Idli
- 1cupsemolina (rava or suji)
- 1/2cupthick curd
- 1tbsplemon juice
- 3/4cupwater
- 1 1/4tspbaking soda or fruit salt (like Eno)
- 1/4tspsalt
Ingredients for Tadka
- 2tbspneutral oil
- 1/2tspmustard seeds (rai)
- 1sprigcurry leaves
- 1/2tspcumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2tspred chilly powder
- 1/2tspgaram masala
- 1tspgrated ginger
- 1large onion, chopped
- 1tspsalt
- 2piecetomatoes, chopped
- 2tbsptomato sauce
- 1sprigcoriander leaves
How to make Zesty Tadka Idli: South Indian Delight in Every Bite!
Method to cook Idli
Mix the semolina, curd, salt, lemon juice and water to form a batter.
Add water slowly as required to make a flowy smooth batter, but it should not be runny. How much water you add depends on the thickness of the curd. less is needed if curd is thin.
Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
Mix in the baking soda well.
Ladle approximately 2 tbsp batter in each cavity of the idli mould and steam for 15 minutes if using a conventional steaming method. If you use microwave moulds, the process is faster and you can get puffy idlis in 3.5 to 4 minutes on high power.
Method to cook Tadka (Tempering)
In a cast iron pan, splutter mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves in a little oil.
Add the onions, ginger, and tomatoes.
Cook till they become soft.
Add in the salt, chilly powder and garam masala.
Add in the tomato sauce.
Mix the tadka with the idli.
Garnish with coriander leaves.
Tips & Tricks
Using a cast iron pan adds nutrition to the food and requires very little oil as it is naturally non-stick when well-seasoned.
You can even use your leftover Idlis to make this.
I love using these microwave idli moulds as they make the work so much faster.
FAQS
How do I make the perfect batter for Zesty Tadka Idli?
To make the perfect batter for Zesty Tadka Idli, mix 1 cup of semolina (rava), 0.5 cup of thick curd, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and 0.75 cup of water. Adjust the water based on the thickness of your curd; it should be a smooth, flowy batter but not runny. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes before adding 1.25 tsp of baking soda for fluffiness.
Can I make Zesty Tadka Idli gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Zesty Tadka Idli gluten-free by using gluten-free semolina or rava alternatives like rice flour or a gluten-free idli mix. Just ensure that the other ingredients, like curd and spices, are also gluten-free.
What are some good storage tips for leftover Zesty Tadka Idli?
To store leftover Zesty Tadka Idli, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes or microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm.
What can I serve with Zesty Tadka Idli for a complete meal?
Zesty Tadka Idli pairs wonderfully with coconut chutney, sambar, or a spicy tomato chutney. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt for added creaminess and flavor.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Zesty Tadka Idli recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute thick curd with yogurt or buttermilk. If you don't have semolina, try using rice flour or a pre-made idli mix. For the tadka, you can replace mustard seeds with sesame seeds and use any vegetables you prefer instead of onions and tomatoes.
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Ritu Nanda
(@no1cookingbyritu)
“Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome recipes and baking adventures. As a content creator and physicist,I combine my love for science and culinary arts to share mouth-watering food ideas with you. Let’s cook, bake, and enjoy the wonders of food together! “Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome...
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