Uttapam Recipe (Soft & Spongy South Indian Uttapam)
Uttapam is a beloved South Indian breakfast dish often described as a thick, soft pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Unlike dosa, uttapam is cooked thick and topped generously with vegetables, making it wholesome, colorful, and filling. Known for its mild tang from fermentation and fluffy texture, uttapam is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This recipe walks you through the authentic method to make soft, spongy uttapam at home—with tips, variations, and serving ideas to help you get restaurant-style results every time.
What is Uttapam?
Uttapam is made using idli–dosa batter, but instead of spreading it thin like a dosa, the batter is poured thick and cooked slowly. Chopped onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrots, green chilies, and coriander are added on top, making it more filling and nutritious. Because of its soft texture, uttapam is often preferred by those who enjoy a milder, less crispy South Indian dish.
Ingredients
For Uttapam Batter
- Fermented idli/dosa batter – 3 cups
- Salt – to taste
For Vegetable Toppings
- Onion (finely chopped) – ½ cup
- Tomato (finely chopped) – ½ cup
- Capsicum (finely chopped) – ¼ cup
- Carrot (grated) – ¼ cup
- Green chili (finely chopped) – 1
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped) – 2 tablespoons
For Cooking
- Oil or ghee – as required
How to Make Idli–Dosa Batter at Home (Optional)
Ingredients:
- Rice – 3 cups
- Urad dal – 1 cup
- Fenugreek seeds – 1 teaspoon
Method:
Wash and soak rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds separately for 5–6 hours. Grind them into a smooth, slightly thick batter. Mix salt, cover, and allow it to ferment overnight or for 8–10 hours in a warm place until the batter doubles in volume.
Step-by-Step Uttapam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Gently stir the fermented batter. The consistency should be thick but pourable—thicker than dosa batter and slightly thinner than idli batter.
Step 2: Heat the Tawa
Heat a non-stick or cast-iron tawa on medium flame. Lightly grease it with oil and wipe with a cloth or tissue.
Step 3: Pour the Batter
Pour one ladle of batter in the center of the tawa. Spread it slightly in a circular motion, keeping it thick. Do not spread too much like dosa.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle chopped onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrot, green chili, and coriander evenly over the batter. Gently press the toppings so they stick to the surface.
Step 5: Cook the Uttapam
Drizzle a little oil around the edges. Cover with a lid and cook on low to medium flame for 2–3 minutes until the bottom turns golden and the top looks cooked.
Step 6: Flip or Serve as Is
You may flip the uttapam and cook the topping side for 30–40 seconds, or serve it without flipping. Both methods work well.
Tips for Soft and Spongy Uttapam
- Use well-fermented batter for best flavor and texture
- Cook on medium flame to avoid burning
- Do not over-spread the batter
- Finely chopped vegetables ensure even cooking
- Cover while cooking to keep the uttapam soft
Popular Uttapam Variations
- Onion Uttapam: Made with only onions and green chilies
- Mixed Vegetable Uttapam: Loaded with multiple vegetables
- Cheese Uttapam: Topped with grated cheese for kids
- Rava Uttapam: Instant version made with semolina
- Oats Uttapam: A healthy modern twist
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot uttapam with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, peanut chutney, or a bowl of sambar. It also tastes great with mint chutney or even tomato ketchup for children.
Health Benefits of Uttapam
- Fermented batter aids digestion
- Vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Requires very little oil
- Filling yet light on the stomach
- Suitable for all age groups
Why Uttapam is a Great Breakfast Choice
Uttapam offers the goodness of fermented grains along with fresh vegetables, making it a balanced meal. It provides sustained energy, keeps you full for longer, and is easy to customize based on taste and dietary needs.
Conclusion
Uttapam is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a nourishing and delicious meal. Soft, fluffy, and versatile, this South Indian favorite is ideal for busy mornings or relaxed weekend breakfasts. Once you master this recipe, uttapam is sure to become a regular part of your home menu.
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