Crispy Stuffed Idli Pakodas with Veggie Filling

Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode Recipe: A Fusion Snack Delight

Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode is a delicious fusion snack that combines the traditional idli with a crispy, savory stuffing of mixed vegetables and spices, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown treat. This recipe is perfect for tea-time or any occasion when you crave something flavorful yet comforting. By transforming the humble idli into crispy pakodas, you’re sure to surprise your family or guests with a unique twist on an Indian classic. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients for Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 65 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Servings: 5

Cuisine: Fusion

Course: Snack

Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions for Making Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode

1. Prepare the Vegetable Stuffing:

   • Begin by heating a little sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Allow them to crackle before adding the chopped onions. Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent.
   • Add the chopped vegetables – carrots, capsicum (green bell pepper), green beans, and cabbage – into the pan. Sauté them for about 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
   • Once the vegetables are cooked, add turmeric powder, salt, green chilies, black pepper powder, and lemon juice. Toss in the boiled potatoes and chopped coriander leaves. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
   • Continue to sauté for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down.

2. Stuff the Idlis:

   • Take each steamed idli and slice it carefully in half, creating two round halves.
   • Take the cooled vegetable mixture and spread it generously on one half of each idli. Place the other half of the idli on top, pressing lightly to seal the stuffing inside. Repeat this process for all the remaining idlis.

3. Make the Batter:

   • In a separate bowl, prepare the batter for coating the idlis. Combine gram flour (besan) with a pinch of salt and water. Stir well to create a medium-thick batter. The consistency of the batter should be such that it coats the back of a spoon without dripping easily.

4. Deep Fry the Stuffed Idlis:

   • Heat sunflower oil in a kadhai (wok) or deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough for frying, but not smoking.
   • One by one, dip each stuffed idli into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. Carefully drop the batter-coated idlis into the hot oil.
   • Deep fry the idlis until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pakodas from the oil and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

5. Serve:

   • Once all the stuffed idlis are fried and drained of excess oil, cut them into halves or quarters to serve.
   • Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode are best enjoyed when served hot with chutneys. You can pair them with a fresh Dhaniya Pudina Chutney (coriander and mint chutney) or Tomato Garlic Chutney for a tangy contrast.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these delicious Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode as a snack at tea-time or as an appetizer at your next party. They also make a great dish for a fun family meal, providing a fusion of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Pair them with a cooling beverage like buttermilk or a hot cup of chai.

Tips:

• For Extra Crispiness: If you want your Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode to be extra crispy, you can sprinkle some rice flour into the gram flour batter.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable stuffing based on what you have on hand. You can also add ingredients like corn, peas, or even paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a different flavor profile.
• Making Idlis at Home: If you don’t have store-bought idlis, you can make them at home using a simple idli batter and a steamer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

This Stuffed Idli Ke Pakode recipe combines the healthiness of steamed idlis with the crispy, savory appeal of fried pakodas, making it a perfect fusion dish for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a snack, a light meal, or something unique for your next gathering, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds!