Can I use regular rice instead of idli rice?

Idli rice is recommended for its texture and flavor, but you can use regular rice as a substitute if needed.

How do I know if the batter is properly fermented?

The batter will rise and become airy with a slightly sour smell when properly fermented.

Can I use oil instead of ghee?

Yes, you can use oil instead of ghee, but ghee adds a richer flavor to the dish.

Podi masala is a spice mix commonly used in South Indian cuisine, made from roasted lentils, spices, and herbs.

Can I skip fenugreek seeds in the batter?

Fenugreek seeds enhance the flavor and aid in fermentation, but you can skip them if necessary.

Hyderabadi Spot Idli

Name: Hyderabadi Spot Idli
Prep time: 900 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 910 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 cups urad dal; 1 tsp fenugreek seeds; 1 cup idli rice; 1 cup flattened poha; 1 tbsp salt; 2 tbsp oil or ghee; 1 tsp mustard seeds; 1 pinch asafoetida; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves; 1 tbsp mint leaves; 1 cup tomato, chopped; 1 tsp red chilli powder; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp kitchen king masala; 1 tbsp water; 4 ladle spot idli batter; 4 tbsp ghee; 2 tbsp coriander leaves; 2 tbsp podi masala

Ria Pai (@riapai009)

Indian Breakfast Snack Brunch Street Food Kid-Friendly Evening Snack Healthy Snack Vegetarian Vegan Option

Hyderabadi Spot Idli is a delicious street-style twist on the traditional South Indian idli. Soft mini idlis are cooked on a hot tawa with a spicy tomato-onion masala, butter, and a dash of chutneys — giving them a flavorful, tangy, and slightly crispy outer layer. It’s a popular Hyderabad street food, perfect for a quick, chatpata snack or breakfast!

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Prep Time

15hr 0min

Cook Time

10min

Total Time

15hr 10min

How to make Hyderabadi Spot Idli

Prepare Spot Idli Batter

Step 1
Soak urad dal with fenugreek seeds for 3 hours and idli rice for 2 hours separately.
Step 2
Grind the soaked ingredients into a fine paste of thick consistency, adding flattened poha during grinding.
Step 3
Add salt and whisk the batter using your hands to improve the fermentation process. Allow the batter to ferment for 8-10 hours in summer or 10-12 hours in winter. Once fermented, keep it aside.

Prepare Spot Idli

Step 1
Heat oil or ghee on a dosa tawa and crackle mustard seeds. Add a pinch of asafoetida, chopped onion, dried fenugreek leaves, and mint leaves. Toss for a few seconds.
Step 2
Add chopped tomato, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, kitchen king masala, pinch of salt and a tablespoon of water to avoid burning the spices.
Step 3
Drizzle some ghee, sprinkle coriander leaves and podi masala, then cover and cook for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
Step 4
Turn the idli and cook covered for another minute. Remove and serve hot with chutney and sambhar.
Step 5
Spot idli tastes best hot and fresh off the tawa, when it’s slightly crisp outside and soft inside.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

195.0kcal (9.75%)

Protein

6.0g (12.06%)

Carbs

22.5g (8.2%)

Sugars

2.3g (4.6%)

Healthy Fat

4.3g

Unhealthy Fat

4.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

Serve the spot idlis hot for the best taste and texture with chutney.
Ensure the batter has a thick consistency for perfect spot idlis.
Add water to the spices while cooking to prevent them from burning.
Toss gently so idlis stay intact and don’t turn mushy.
Serve the spot idlis hot for the best taste and texture.

FAQS

Can I use regular rice instead of idli rice?
Idli rice is recommended for its texture and flavor, but you can use regular rice as a substitute if needed.
How do I know if the batter is properly fermented?
The batter will rise and become airy with a slightly sour smell when properly fermented.
Can I use oil instead of ghee?
Yes, you can use oil instead of ghee, but ghee adds a richer flavor to the dish.
What is podi masala?
Podi masala is a spice mix commonly used in South Indian cuisine, made from roasted lentils, spices, and herbs.
Can I skip fenugreek seeds in the batter?
Fenugreek seeds enhance the flavor and aid in fermentation, but you can skip them if necessary.