Chili Idli Recipe

Chili Idli is a popular Indo-Chinese snack made using leftover idlis, which are stir-fried with vegetables and spices. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make Chili Idli:

Ingredients:

For the Idli:

• Leftover idlis (6-8 idlis)
• 2 tbsp oil

For the Stir-fry:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (green/red/yellow)
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 spring onions, chopped
• 1-2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp red chili sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tsp vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp black pepper powder
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Preparing the Idlis:

1. Cut the Idlis: Cut the leftover idlis into bite-sized cubes.
2. Fry the Idlis: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add the idli cubes and sauté until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

Making the Chili Idli:

1. Heat Oil: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil.
2. Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Add Ginger-Garlic: Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another minute.
4. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped bell pepper, julienned carrot, and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry on high heat for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are cooked but still crisp.
5. Sauce Mix: Add soy sauce, red chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, salt, black pepper powder, and sugar (if using). Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Combine Idlis: Add the fried idli cubes to the pan. Toss well to ensure the idlis are coated with the sauce and vegetables.
7. Finish: Add the chopped spring onions and stir for another minute.
8. Garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving:

Serve the Chili Idli hot, garnished with extra spring onions and coriander leaves if desired. It can be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy Chili Idli!