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Masala idli fry is a delicious snack recipe made using leftover idlis that are infused with aromatic spices.
This is an easy snack recipe that can be relished as a breakfast dish or a side dish with meals.
This is a vegan, beginner-friendly recipe that comes together in just under 30 minutes.
About Masala Idli Fry
Masala Idli fry is a quick, easy and delicious snack recipe.
Normally at home, whenever we are left with plain idlis I love to make fried idlis, Idli upma and this spicy version of masala idli. This is a great way to use leftover idlis and makes a perfect breakfast option.
I have already posted how to make plain idli, do check out if interested along with the coconut-peanut chutney that goes best with it.
To make these masala idlis, plain idlis are deep fried and tossed into an onion-tomato mixture which is infused with an aromatic blend of spices & herbs.
The only thing to remember here is, to use only leftover idlis as the fresh idlis will break and absorb more oil while frying and tossing in the masala mixture. Serve this masala idli immediately as it gets soggy if kept for a long time.
Recipe Video
lngredients
Idli – For making this masala idli fry, it’s always important to use leftover idlis. If you want to use fresh idlis then refrigerate for about 1 hour before making this dish.
Onion-Tomatoes – Onion tomato makes the base for this recipe. It adds a nice texture to this dish.
Spices & Herbs – Minimal spices such as red chilli powder, sambar masala, and turmeric powder are required. To enhance the flavour, curry leaves, green chillies and coriander leaves are used.
Seasonings – Sugar is added to balance the flavour, it is optional but it enhances the taste. Salt as per taste.
Oil – To cook and too deep fry the idlis.
Serving Suggestions
This spicy masala idli pairs best with tea and coffee. For children, you can drizzle some ketchup to add that extra zing.
Storage Option
Serve this masala idli immediately. If kept for a long time it becomes soggy.
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Step-by-Step Masala Idli Using Leftover Idlis With Pictures
How to make Masala Idli Fry From Leftover Idlis
- We will be using leftover idlis for this recipe.
- Cut idlis into small bite-size pieces.
- Deep fry these idlis on a medium flame till idlis turn golden brown and crisp.
- Fry all the idlis and transfer them onto an absorbent paper.
- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add thing (asafoetida), finely chopped green chillies and curry leaves.
- Add finely chopped onions and saute till onions are translucent.
- Add finely chopped tomatoes.
- Cook tomatoes till they are soft.
- Once onion-tomatoes are cooked, add red chilli powder, turmeric powder and sambar masala powder. Here you can also add pav bhaji masala or garam masala.
- Mix the masala and add just 1/4th cup of water so that the masala doesn’t burn.
- Add sugar and salt to taste. Idlis already have salt in them hence add salt for masala only.
- Add the fried idli and mix well with the onion-tomato masala.
- Lastly, add freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Crispy & delicious Masala Idli is ready to serve. Serve immediately.
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Recipe Card
Masala Idli Fry | How To Make Masala Idli Fry From Leftover Idlis
Ingredients
- 6 Leftover Idlis
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 1/4th teaspoon Hing (asafoetida)
- 5-6 Curry Leaves
- 1 Green Chilli, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Red Chilli Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 tablespoon Sambar Masala
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- Salt to taste
- Coriander Leaves, to garnish
- 2 tablespoons Oil, to cook
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- We will be using leftover idlis for this recipe.
- Cut idlis into small bite-size pieces.
- Deep fry these idlis on a medium flame till idlis turn golden brown and crisp.
- Fry all the idlis and transfer them onto an absorbent paper.
- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add thing (asafoetida), finely chopped green chillies and curry leaves.
- Add finely chopped onions and saute till onions are translucent.
- Add finely chopped tomatoes.
- Cook tomatoes till they are soft.
- Once onion-tomatoes are cooked, add red chilli powder, turmeric powder and sambar masala powder. Here you can also add pav bhaji masala or garam masala.
- Mix the masala and add just 1/4th cup of water so that the masala doesn't burn.
- Add sugar and salt to taste. Idlis already have salt in them hence add salt for masala only.
- Add the fried idli and mix well with the onion-tomato masala.
- Lastly, add freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Crispy & delicious Masala Idli is ready to serve. Serve immediately.
lovely recipe of leftover idlis