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Idli Shakshuka – A Spicy and Comforting Fusion Breakfast

Idli Shakshuka


  • Author: Hina K Batra
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Idli Shakshuka! Soft, instant idlis topped with a flavorful shakshuka-style gravy—packed with spicy goodness and the perfect way to start your day. This recipe is simple, healthy, and oh-so-delicious!


Scale

Ingredients

For Instant Idli Batter:

  • 1 cup semolina (suji)
  • ½ cup curd (dahi)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
  • ¼ tsp baking soda or ½ tsp eno fruit salt

For Shakshuka-Style Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small beetroot, chopped
  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ cup tomato purée (blend 1 tomato, 2 garlic cloves, and 20 gms paneer)
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp sambar masala
  • 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
  • 1 cup water (or as needed)

For Tadka (Tempering):

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • 68 curry leaves

For Garnishing:

 

  • Grated coconut
  • Chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

Make Instant Idlis:

  • In a bowl, mix suji, curd, salt, and water. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • Just before steaming, add baking soda (or eno) to the batter and stir gently.

Make Shakshuka Gravy:

  • Blend 1 tomato, 2 garlic cloves, and paneer until smooth.
  • Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, and sauté until golden brown.
  • Add beetroot, tomatoes, and salt. Cook until soft.
  • Pour in the prepared tomato-garlic-paneer purée.
  • Add red chili powder, sambar masala, and water. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
  • Place the idli batter in the gravy, cover, and steam on low flame for 10-12 minutes.

Prepare Tadka:

  • Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Let them crackle.
  • Once the idlis are steamed, pour the tadka over them for extra flavor.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Sprinkle grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves on top.
  • Serve hot and enjoy your fusion delight!

Notes

  • Use fine semolina (suji) for a smooth and soft texture. If using coarse semolina, blend it slightly for a finer consistency.
  • Let the batter rest for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb moisture, making the idlis fluffier.
  • Use fresh curd for a mild tangy flavor and better fermentation.
  • Add baking soda or eno just before steaming to ensure the idlis rise well and stay soft.
  • Beetroot adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the gravy. You can skip it or replace it with capsicum, carrots for a similar effect.
  • For a richer texture, you can blend the tomatoes with cashews instead of paneer.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the red chili powder as per your preference.
  • If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water or let it simmer a bit longer.
  • Sambar masala enhances the South Indian flavors, but you can replace it with garam masala or pav bhaji masala for a different taste.
  • Tamarind pulp adds tanginess, but you can use lemon juice as an alternative.
  • Make sure the gravy has enough moisture before placing the idli batter to steam. If it looks dry, add a little more water.
  • Keep the flame low while steaming to ensure the idlis cook through evenly without absorbing too much gravy.
  • Add tadka just before serving for a burst of aroma and flavor.
  • If you like extra crunch, toss in some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds.
  • Serve hot for the best taste and texture.
  • Pair with coconut chutney or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: Idli Shakshuka | Fusion Recipe | Healthy breakfast | Quick breakfast | Easy Recipes