Veg Uttapam is a colorful, thick, pancake-like South Indian dish made with fermented idli or dosa batter and topped with a variety of finely chopped vegetables. It's nutritious, delicious, and perfect for breakfast or a light meal.
Ingredients:
2 cups idli or dosa batter (store-bought or homemade)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small tomato, finely chopped
1 small capsicum (bell pepper), finely chopped
1 small carrot, grated
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
A few coriander leaves, chopped
Salt to taste (if not already in the batter)
2-3 tsp oil or ghee for cooking
Optional Toppings:
1-2 tbsp grated cheese (optional, for a more indulgent twist)
1/4 tsp black pepper or chat masala for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
If you're using homemade idli/dosa batter, ensure it's fermented and at the right consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little water to make it spreadable but not runny.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a bowl, mix the finely chopped onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrots, green chilies (if using), and coriander leaves.
3. Heat the Pan:
Heat a non-stick tawa or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
4. Spread the Batter:
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and gently spread it into a thick circle (like a pancake), about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Unlike dosa, uttapam is not spread thin.
5. Add the Veggies:
Immediately sprinkle the mixed vegetables evenly on top of the batter. Press them down gently with the back of a spoon so they stick to the batter.
6. Cook the Uttapam:
Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges and on top. Cook on medium heat until the underside turns golden and small bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Flip and Cook:
Carefully flip the uttapam and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly cook but remain crunchy.
8. Serve:
Remove the uttapam from the pan and serve hot.
Serve Veg Uttapam with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar.
Tips:
Cheese Topping: For a cheesy variation, sprinkle grated cheese over the vegetables before flipping the uttapam.
Seasoning: You can sprinkle some black pepper or chat masala on top of the vegetables for extra flavor.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like grated beetroot, chopped spinach, or even peas for a unique twist.
Veg Uttapam is a wholesome and colorful dish that combines the soft texture of uttapam with the crunch and freshness of vegetables. It’s packed with nutrients and pairs beautifully with chutneys and sambar, making it a filling and nutritious meal.