Zesty Tadka Idli: South Indian Delight in Every Bite!

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Ritu Nanda (@no1cookingbyritu)

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...

Zesty Tadka Idli: South Indian Delight in Every Bite! recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
40min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 2 idli)

Ingredients for Idli

  • semolina (rava or suji)
    semolina (rava or suji)
    1cup
  • thick curd
    thick curd
    1/2cup
  • lemon juice
    lemon juice
    1tbsp
  • water
    water
    3/4cup
  • baking soda or fruit salt (like Eno)
    baking soda or fruit salt (like Eno)
    1 1/4tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1/4tsp

Ingredients for Tadka

  • neutral oil
    neutral oil
    2tbsp
  • mustard seeds (rai)
    mustard seeds (rai)
    1/2tsp
  • curry leaves
    curry leaves
    1sprig
  • cumin seeds (jeera)
    cumin seeds (jeera)
    1/2tsp
  • red chilly powder
    red chilly powder
    1/2tsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1/2tsp
  • grated ginger
    grated ginger
    1tsp
  • large onion, chopped
    large onion, chopped
    1
  • salt
    salt
    1tsp
  • tomatoes, chopped
    tomatoes, chopped
    2piece
  • tomato sauce
    tomato sauce
    2tbsp
  • coriander leaves
    coriander leaves
    1sprig

How to make Zesty Tadka Idli: South Indian Delight in Every Bite!

Method to cook Idli

  1. Step 1

    Mix the semolina, curd, salt, lemon juice and water to form a batter.

  2. Step 2

    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.

  3. Step 3

    Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Mix in the baking soda well.

  5. Step 5

    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)

  1. Step 1

    In a cast iron pan, splutter mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves in a little oil.

    Step 2.1: In a[ cast iron pan](https://amzn
  2. Step 2

    Add the onions, ginger, and tomatoes.

    Step 2.1: Add the onions, ginger, and tomatoes
    Step 2.2: Add the onions, ginger, and tomatoes
  3. Step 3

    Cook till they become soft.

  4. Step 4

    Add in the salt, chilly powder and garam masala.

    Step 2.1: Add in the salt, chilly powder and garam masala
    Step 2.2: Add in the salt, chilly powder and garam masala
  5. Step 5

    Add in the tomato sauce.

    Step 2.1: Add in the tomato sauce
  6. Step 6

    Mix the tadka with the idli.

    Step 2.1: Mix the tadka with the idli
  7. Step 7

    Garnish with coriander leaves.

    Step 2.1: Garnish with coriander leaves

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

168.8kcal (8.44%)

Protein

5.0g (10%)

Carbs

22.5g (8.18%)

Sugars

2.5g (5%)

Healthy Fat

5.0g

Unhealthy Fat

1.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Using a cast iron pan adds nutrition to the food and requires very little oil as it is naturally non-stick when well-seasoned.

  2. You can even use your leftover Idlis to make this.

  3. I love using these microwave idli moulds as they make the work so much faster.

FAQS

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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

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