Uttapam

Uttapam is a popular South Indian dish that is often described as a thick pancake or dosa topped with vegetables. Unlike crispy dosas, Uttapam has a soft, fluffy texture with a slightly crispy outer layer, making it a delightful breakfast or snack option. It is traditionally served with coconut chutney and sambar, enhancing its flavors.

What is Uttapam?

Is a fermented rice and urad dal (black gram) batter-based dish, similar to dosa but cooked thicker. It is topped with a variety of vegetables like onions, tomatoes, carrots, and green chilies, adding a delicious crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

For Batter:

• 1 cup rice
• 1/4 cup urad dal (black gram lentils)
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water as required

For Toppings:

• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 small tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 green chili (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking:

• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee

How to Make Uttapam

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Wash and soak the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds in water for at least 4-6 hours.
2. Drain the water and grind them into a smooth batter using a little water.
3. Transfer the batter to a large bowl, add salt, and allow it to ferment overnight or for 8-10 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

1. In a bowl, mix onions, tomatoes, carrots, green chilies, coriander, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook

1. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron tawa (griddle) on medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
2. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the tawa and spread it gently into a thick pancake shape.
3. Sprinkle the prepared vegetable toppings evenly on top of the batter.
4. Drizzle a little oil around the edges and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.
5. Flip carefully and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Remove from the tawa and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Coconut chutney
• Tomato chutney
• Sambar
• Mint or coriander chutney

Tips for Perfect

• Use well-fermented batter for soft and fluffy Uttapams.
• Adjust the thickness according to your preference.
• Experiment with different toppings like capsicum, paneer, or cheese for variations.

Uttapam is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal packed with proteins, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast dish or a light dinner, this South Indian classic is sure to please your taste buds.