Looking for a vibrant and delicious twist on traditional South Indian idlis? This easy beetroot idli fry recipe is not only healthy and flavourful but also visually stunning with its bright pink hue.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an evening snack, these crispy, spiced idlis will quickly become a family favorite. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to make it at home.
Step 1: Soak and Grind Rice and Dal
Start by rinsing rice and dal separately, then soak them for 6-7 hours. After soaking, grind them into a smooth, lump-free batter, adding a little water if needed. Let the batter ferment overnight-this creates soft, fluffy idlis that are light and airy.
Step 2: Make Fresh Beetroot Paste
Chop fresh beetroot and blend it into a fine paste. Add 1-2 teaspoons of water to ensure a smooth, creamy texture. This natural beetroot paste not only adds a beautiful pink color but also boosts the nutritional value of the idlis.
Step 3: Mix Beetroot Paste with Idli Batter
Once the batter has fermented, fold in the beetroot paste along with a pinch of salt. If the batter is too thick, add a little water for the perfect pouring consistency. Mix well to get a bright pink, uniform batter ready for steaming.
Step 4: Steam the Idlis
Grease your idli plates with ghee or oil and pour in the beetroot batter. Steam for 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Allow the idlis to cool slightly before removing them from the moulds. The result is soft, fluffy, and colorful idlis.
Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Masala
In a pan, heat oil or ghee and add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter. Sauté chopped onions and curry leaves until fragrant. Add turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and slit green chilies. For extra aroma and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garam masala. This creates a rich, spicy masala base that complements the beetroot idlis perfectly.
Step 6: Fry the Beetroot Idlis
Cut the steamed idlis into quarters and toss them in the spiced pan. Fry until they are golden brown, slightly crispy on the edges, and evenly coated with the masala. The combination of soft inside and crispy outside makes this dish utterly irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot. These beetroot idlis pair wonderfully with creamy coconut chutney or crunchy peanut chutney, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option. With its eye-catching color, flavorful spices, and crispy texture, this beetroot idli fry is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy and fun way to include vegetables in your diet.