Karuveppilai Podi Idli – Spicy Lentil & Curry Leaves Powder Tossed Idli
Description:
Karuveppilai Podi is an integral condiment in Tamil Brahmin households, revered for its unique, spicy, and aromatic flavor. This dish is a delightful blend of mini idlis tossed in the flavorful Karuveppilai Podi, transforming simple steamed idlis into an irresistible treat. Perfect for breakfast, these Karuveppilai Podi Idlis can also double as a quick evening snack or a delicious addition to a school snack box. The rich, crispy spice powder gives the idlis an addictive taste, and when paired with coconut chutney and filter coffee, it makes a wholesome meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
For the Idli:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mini Idlis | 10 pieces |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
For the Karuveppilai Podi (Curry Leaf Powder):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Curry Leaves | 2 cups |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 tablespoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 pieces |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/4 cup |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Idlis
To begin, prepare your idlis by following the recipe for soft and fluffy idlis using idli dosa batter. Once the idlis are cooked, transfer them into a bowl and set them aside until needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Karuveppilai Podi (Curry Leaf Powder)
- Heat a teaspoon of sesame oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh curry leaves and dry roast them for a few seconds until they turn crisp. Once roasted, transfer them to a plate and set aside to cool.
- In the same skillet, add one more teaspoon of oil and toss in the chana dal and urad dal. Roast the dals over medium heat until they turn golden brown.
- Once the dals are roasted, add the dry red chillies and cumin seeds. Continue to roast until the chillies crisp up.
- Turn off the heat, and transfer all the roasted ingredients, including the curry leaves, into a bowl. Allow them to cool completely.
- Once cooled, grind the roasted ingredients together in a food processor or grinder to form a coarse powder.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and salt to taste, and stir well to combine. You can store this Karuveppilai Podi in an airtight container for future use.
Step 3: Toss the Idlis in Karuveppilai Podi
- Heat the sesame oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them crackle.
- Once the mustard seeds crackle, add the split urad dal and roast them until they turn golden brown.
- Add the steamed idlis to the skillet and sprinkle around 4 tablespoons of Karuveppilai Podi over them.
- Gently stir the idlis to coat them evenly with the spice powder. Let the idlis roast for a few seconds until they are nicely toasted.
- Turn off the heat and remove the Karuveppilai Podi Idli from the skillet.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Karuveppilai Podi Idli hot along with a side of Coconut Chutney and a cup of South Indian Filter Coffee for a traditional and satisfying South Indian breakfast or evening snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
Tips:
- For an extra crispy texture, you can pan-roast the idlis before tossing them in the spice powder.
- The Karuveppilai Podi can be prepared in bulk and stored in an airtight container, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.
- If you prefer a less spicy version, adjust the amount of dry red chillies used in the podi.
FAQs:
Can I make the Karuveppilai Podi in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Karuveppilai Podi in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks. It will retain its flavor and spice.
Can I use regular oil instead of sesame oil?
While sesame oil gives the dish an authentic flavor, you can use regular vegetable oil if preferred. However, the unique taste of sesame oil adds to the dish’s character.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, this dish is naturally vegan, as it does not contain any animal products.
Final Thoughts:
Karuveppilai Podi Idli is a quintessential South Indian dish that combines the delicate softness of idlis with the bold, savory flavors of curry leaves, spices, and dals. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast or an afternoon snack, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with coconut chutney and filter coffee to recreate the true essence of a South Indian meal.
