Uttapam: A Savory South Indian Delight
Uttapam, sometimes called Rava Uttapam, is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish prepared with semolina. Unlike traditional uttapam, which is made with fermented rice and lentil batter, Suji Uttapam is a quick and easy option for busy mornings. The end product is a fluffy, savoury pancake full of flavour that can be customised with your own toppings. It pairs well with coconut chutney, sambar, or just a dollop of yoghurt.
Benefits of Suji Uttapam:
- Quick and Easy: Suji Uttapam is quick and easy to make because it uses easily available ingredients and does not require any fermenting time.
- Healthy and nutritious: Semolina contains carbohydrates and protein, while vegetables provide crucial vitamins and fibre
- Vegetarian and Vegan-friendly: Suji Uttapam is naturally vegetarian and may be made vegan by adding plant-based yoghurt to the batter.
- Customisable: Feel free to experiment with various vegetables and spices to create your own distinct flavour combinations.
Basic Suji Uttapam Recipe
Here’s a basic recipe for Suji Uttapam to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (rava or suji)
- 1/2 cup yogurt (curd)
- 1/2 cup water (more as needed)
- 1/3 to 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- Chopped vegetables of your choice (onions, tomatoes, peppers, etc.)
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine semolina, yogurt, water, and salt. Mix well to form a thick batter. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- If the batter seems too thick after resting, add a little more water to achieve a pouring consistency.
- Heat a griddle or tawa over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil or ghee.
- Once hot, scoop a ladleful of batter onto the griddle and spread it into a round shape.
- Sprinkle chopped vegetables on top of the batter.
- Drizzle a little more oil or ghee around the edges of the uttapam.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip the uttapam and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your favorite chutney or sambar.
