Idli Tikka Recipe with Sambar: A Fusion Breakfast Delight
Description
The Idli Tikka Recipe is an innovative twist on the traditional South Indian breakfast. Created when I wanted to serve idli in a fun and exciting way for my kids, this recipe is the perfect blend of fusion and tradition. It is designed to appeal to both children and adults who enjoy visually enticing and unique dishes. The classic idli, typically steamed and served with chutney, is transformed into bite-sized tikkas, tossed with vibrant vegetables, and served in an eye-catching, bowl-like presentation. It is then generously poured over with a rich and flavorful sambar, making this dish both satisfying and irresistible. This recipe also includes the steps for preparing a fresh tomato and vegetable sambar that perfectly complements the crispy idlis.
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Idli:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Idli Dosa Batter | 2 cups |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Vegetables:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1 cup, cubed |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1 cup, cubed |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1 cup, cubed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1/2 teaspoon |
For the Sambar:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup, washed |
| Tamarind Water | 1 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Pearl onions (Sambar Onions) | 1/2 cup |
| Bottle gourd (Lauki) | 1/2 cup, cooked and finely chopped |
| Drumstick | 1, cooked and cut into medium pieces |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
For Tempering the Sambar:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 6 sprigs |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Kashmiri dry red chillies | 3, broken |
Preparation Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Idlis:
Begin by preparing the idli dosa batter and setting it aside. Heat the idli steamer with water, making sure the water level is below the idli plates to avoid contact with the batter. Grease the cavities of the idli steaming pan and pour the batter into each cavity. Steam the idlis on high heat for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked. If you prefer smaller portions, mini idli pans can be used to create bite-sized idlis. -
Make the Vegetable Tikka:
While the idlis are steaming, heat a shallow frying pan with a teaspoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves. Allow them to crackle and cook until the dal turns golden brown and crisp. Add the cubed vegetables—green, yellow, and red bell peppers—and sauté them lightly. Season with salt if needed. Toss the vegetables and stir gently to prevent the idlis from breaking. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove from heat. -
Prepare the Sambar:
In a separate pot, cook the arhar dal (split toor dal) with water until it turns soft and mushy. Once cooked, add tamarind water, turmeric powder, sambar powder, pearl onions, bottle gourd, drumstick, and chopped tomato. Simmer the mixture until all the vegetables are tender and well combined. -
Temper the Sambar:
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of oil and add mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter before adding curry leaves, bay leaf, and broken Kashmiri red chillies. Fry briefly and pour this tempering over the simmering sambar. Stir to incorporate the flavors. -
Assemble the Idli Tikka:
To serve, arrange the prepared idlis on a platter or in individual dessert bowls. Carefully spoon the vegetable tikka mixture over the idlis. Then, pour the freshly made sambar generously on top, allowing the rich flavors to soak into the idlis and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Idli Tikka with a side of extra sambar and enjoy the crispy, flavorful bites of idli combined with the savory, tangy sambar. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a hearty snack, offering a fusion of textures and flavors that will surely impress!
Note: This recipe brings together the familiar comfort of idli with the zest of fusion cooking, making it a delightful dish to try out with friends and family. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this Idli Tikka with Sambar will be an enjoyable and unique experience!
