LEFTOVER IDLI MANCHURIAN RECIPE

Upgrade your idlis with this tasty twist! Transforming plain idlis into a burst of flavour, this vegan and gluten-free Idli Stir-Fry Manchurian recipe combines the best of Indo-Chinese tastes with the soft goodness of idlis. Simple, delicious, and a treat for everyone!

INGREDIENTS
4 Idlis
1 Tbsp Oil
1/2 Tsp Cumin Seeds
1/2 Tsp Mustard Seeds
1 Tbsp Minced Ginger & Garlic
1 Finely Chopped Green Chilli
1 String Curry Leaves
1 Pinch Asafoetida
1/2 Tsp Sesame Seeds
1 Finely Chopped Onion
1 Finely Chopped Tomato
1/4 Finely Chopped Capsicum
1/2 Tsp Turmeric
1 Tbsp Soya Sauce
1/2 Tbsp White Vinegar
2 Tbsp Scallions or Chives (Optional)
1 Tbsp Fresh Grated Coconut
Salt to Taste

METHOD

• Heat a generous amount of Sesame Oil (or oil of your choice) in a large pan or wok.
• Add Cumin Seeds and Mustard Seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter.
• Incorporate minced Ginger and Garlic, along with the finely chopped Green Chilli and sauté them for a few seconds, infusing the oil with their flavours.
• To enhance the taste, we will add Curry Leaves, Asafoetida and Sesame Seeds.
• Next, add the chopped Onion and cook until it turns translucent, bringing out its natural sweetness.
• Introduce the chopped Tomatoes and continue cooking until they soften.
• For a burst of color and crunch, add the chopped Capsicum and cook for another minute.
• Sprinkle a little Turmeric Powder and add some Soya Sauce and White Vinegar for a touch of tanginess. Adjust the salt to your preferred taste, considering that Soya Sauce is already slightly salty.
• Now it’s time to add the star ingredient! Combine the chopped Idlis with the flavourful mixture and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. If using day-old Idlis from the refrigerator, steam them beforehand for a few minutes in your Idli steamer/cooker to restore their soft and fluffy texture. You can achieve this by sprinkling water over the Idlis and microwaving them for 2-3 minutes.
• You can garnish the dish with finely chopped Spring Onion Green Leaves or Chives, along with freshly Grated Coconut. The vibrant colours and aromatic garnish will elevate the visual appeal of your dish. Alternatively, you can skip the garnish and enjoy the dish as is or with a little coconut chutney served on the side.
• Serve the Idli Stir-Fry hot and savour the explosion of flavours with every bite.
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