Idly/Idli is a traditional food in which fermentation increases the essential amino acids and B vitamins. Improved presence of protineases and amylases helps in better digestion. This is why idly is a preferred food recommended for both pediatric and geriatric nutrition
“Spot Idli” is the recipe for the day. Are you wondering what this is? Well, it’s a Hyderabadi street food which has gained popularity since 1990. Had the ultimate pleasure of tasting this food innovation during my visit to this city a couple of years ago. A spicy and spongy idli with a crispy outer layer cooked on a Tawa with the typical Andhra “idly karam” is the secret behind this mouthwatering dish. This preparation does not use a steamer but the idli gets cooked in its own inherent moisture. The butter helps to form the crisp outer layer.
Ingredients for Idli Karam
- Chana dal 1/2std cup
- Udad dal 1/3std cup
- Red chilly 30 long ones
- Fenugreek seeds 1 tsp
- Coriander seeds 1/3std cup
- Mustard 1 tsp
- Jeera 1 tsp
- Garlic 15 cloves
- Curry leaf Few
- Ghee/oil 1 tsp
- Asafoetida 1 tsp
- Sesame seeds 1 tsp
- Tamarind Marble size ball
Preparation Method:
- Heat a wok.
- Add oil or ghee add all ingredients and fry till the dals are golden brown.
- Cool and Pulverise into a coarse powder.
- Cool and store
Ingredients for Spot Idli
- Idly batter
- Chopped onions 2 Nos
- Chopped tomatoes 2 Nos
- Butter 4 tsps
- Chopped coriander 4 tsps
- Idly karam – Required quantity
Preparation Method:
- Take a dosa tawa and heat it.
- Once hot Simmer and smear a drop of oil on the tawa.
- Divide the chopped onions and tomatoes into 4 portions.
- Add 1 portion of chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander.
- Saute lightly Add a tsp of butter.
- Pour a ladle of idly batter Sprinkle liberally with idly karam depending on your spice quotient
- Cover the tawa with a lid. Cook on low flame for about 5 minutes or till the idli is done.
- Turn the idly and cook on the other side too.
- Serve hot topped with more idly karam and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Note: You can totally avoid the idly Karam when preparing the dish for kids.
Check here for version 2.0 of the famous Hyderabad spot idli.
