Masala Idli Recipe: Craving For Some Iconically Indian Comfort Food? Then Try This Quick South Indian Breakfast Dish

Ever made Masala Idli with leftover idlis? If not then check out this easy Masala Idli recipe. Whether you want to enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a satisfying snack, these spiced-up idlis are bound to become a family favourite. 

how to make easy south indian masala idli recipe

South Indian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavours and delicious dishes, and one such beloved delicacy is Masala Idli. Idli, a traditional South Indian steamed rice cake, is elevated to a whole new level with the addition of a spicy and aromatic masala mix. This quick and easy recipe brings together the goodness of idlis with a tantalising masala blend, creating a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Instead of letting leftover idlis go to waste, making Masala Idli with them helps minimise food wastage, contributing to a better kitchen practice. Masala Idli can be customised to suit your taste preferences. You can add various vegetables, spices, and condiments to create a dish that perfectly suits your palate. The addition of spices and seasonings in Masala Idli gives it a burst of flavour that elevates the humble idlis to a whole new level. You can also find this recipe on Chef Dassana Amit’s page. It's a fantastic way to spice up your meal and tantalise your taste buds. Masala Idli is versatile and can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a fulfilling snack.

How To Make Masala Idli:

Masala Idli

1. If you have leftover idlis, you can use them. Alternatively, prepare fresh idlis using idli batter and a steamer. Once the idlis are ready, cut them into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

2. In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.

3. Add finely chopped onions, green chilli, ginger, and minced garlic to the pan. Saute until the onions turn translucent.

4. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala to the pan. Mix well and cook for a minute to toast the spices.

5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they turn soft and mushy. Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the bite-sized idli pieces to the pan. Gently mix until the idlis are coated evenly with the masala mixture.

6. Sprinkle fresh curry leaves and chopped coriander leaves over the masala idli and add salt. Mix well and cook for another minute to allow the flavours to meld together.

7. Once the masala idlis are heated through and well-coated with the masala mixture, turn off the heat.

8. Serve hot masala idlis as a standalone dish or with coconut chutney or sambar for a complete South Indian meal experience.

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Masala Idli Recipe Card

Spice up your boring days with this delicious Masala Idli recipe
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  • Total Time :20 min
  • Preparation Time : 5 min
  • Cooking Time : 15 min
  • Servings : 2
  • Cooking Level : Medium
  • Course: Breakfast
  • Calories: 200
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Author: Alice Mary Topno

Ingredients

  • 8-10 idlis (leftover or freshly steamed)
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 1 finely chopped tomato
  • 1 finely chopped green chilli
  • 1/2 inch grated ginger
  • 2-3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 sprig curry leaves
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
  • Oil as required
  • Salt to taste

Step

  • Step 1 :

    Take the leftover idlis, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

  • Step 2 :

    Heat oil in a pan and splutter mustard and cumin seeds.

  • Step 3 :

    Saute onions, green chilli, ginger, and garlic until translucent.

  • Step 4 :

    Add turmeric, red chilli, coriander powder, and garam masala, and cook for some time.

  • Step 5 :

    Add chopped tomatoes, cook until soft, then add idli pieces.

  • Step 6 :

    Mix in curry leaves, coriander, and salt, and cook for another minute.

  • Step 7 :

    Serve hot once the idlis are well-coated with masala mixture.