Mini Idli Upma Recipe (Steamed Rice Cake Stir Fry)
Mini Idli Upma is an incredibly versatile and tasty dish, perfect for utilizing leftover idlis or mini idlis. This simple, yet flavorful South Indian recipe is an excellent way to turn your leftover steamed rice cakes (idlis) into a savory snack or breakfast dish. With the blend of green chillies, onions, and aromatic spices, it’s no wonder that this dish is adored by children and adults alike. The sweetness of onions complements the heat from green chillies and the soft texture of the idlis, making it a comforting dish. It’s a great addition to a snack box for school or a quick, hearty breakfast at home.
Traditionally served with tangy coconut chutney or spicy red chilli coconut chutney, and accompanied by a glass of hot Ginger Cardamom Chai, this Mini Idli Upma brings together the true essence of South Indian flavors in one delightful dish. Whether you are using leftover large idlis or opting for mini idlis, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mini Idlis (steamed rice cakes) | 20 pieces |
| Onions, finely chopped | 10 small onions (or 1 large onion) |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies, chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves, finely chopped | 5 leaves |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil or Vegetable Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, chopped | Small bunch |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Instructions for Mini Idli Upma
To start preparing the Mini Idli Upma Recipe (Steamed Rice Cake Stir Fry), follow these simple steps:
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating sesame (gingelly) oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds (if desired), and split urad dal. Allow them to crackle and sizzle for a few seconds until the dal turns lightly golden.
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Cook the Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they become soft, translucent, and tender, around 5 minutes on medium heat. The aroma of the sautéed onions will fill your kitchen with a comforting scent.
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Add Spices and Ingredients: Once the onions are soft, add the curry leaves, chopped green chillies, and finely chopped ginger to the pan. Stir these ingredients for about 1 minute to release their fragrant oils. Then, sprinkle the turmeric powder and stir everything together to combine.
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Incorporate the Idlis: Now, crumble the mini idlis into small pieces (or cut larger idlis into small chunks) and add them to the pan. Add salt to taste and mix everything thoroughly so that the idlis are evenly coated with the onion and spice mixture. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, stirring gently to ensure the idlis absorb the flavors.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the idli mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the dish more aromatic.
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Garnish and Serve: Once ready, stir in the freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and added freshness. Taste the upma and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the Mini Idli Upma hot with your choice of coconut chutney—either South Indian Coconut Chutney or Red Chilli Coconut Chutney—and a cup of Ginger Cardamom Chai for an authentic South Indian breakfast experience.
Allergen Information
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, as it uses rice and lentils (from the idlis).
- Contains Mustard: If you have a mustard allergy, this recipe might not be suitable for you due to the mustard seeds used in the tempering.
- Contains Urad Dal: Those with legume sensitivities or allergies should note that this recipe contains urad dal.
- Sesame Oil: Those with sesame allergies should use an alternative cooking oil such as vegetable oil or coconut oil.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Ideal for those who avoid gluten.
- Nut-Free: This recipe does not contain nuts, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies.
- Dairy-Free: As the recipe uses only oil and does not include any dairy products, it is suitable for those following a dairy-free diet.
Advice
- Texture Variation: If you prefer a crispier version of Mini Idli Upma, you can toast the crumbled idlis lightly in a separate pan before adding them to the tempering. This will add an extra crunch to the dish.
- Spiciness Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your preference. For a milder version, reduce the number of green chillies or remove their seeds.
- Adding Vegetables: You can also enhance the nutrition of the dish by adding some finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers. These can be sautéed along with the onions for a more colorful and nutritious upma.
- Leftover Idlis: This is a great recipe to make use of leftover idlis. If you don’t have mini idlis, regular-sized idlis can be cut into small pieces or crumbled before adding them to the pan.
Conclusion
Mini Idli Upma (Steamed Rice Cake Stir Fry) is a delightful and flavorful dish that makes a great snack or breakfast option. Whether you have leftover idlis or freshly made mini idlis, this dish transforms simple steamed rice cakes into a vibrant, aromatic, and satisfying meal. Packed with the goodness of spices, herbs, and the subtle sweetness of onions, it’s a recipe that brings together the best of South Indian cuisine. Serve it with a refreshing chutney and a hot cup of chai for a complete and wholesome experience.
