Idli Fry Recipe | Fried Idli Recipe

Idli Fry is a super quick and crunchy snack made using leftover idlis. When you don't feel like making usual snacks like sundal or bajji, this is one easy idea that comes to mind when you have leftover idli. The fried idlis turn nice and golden outside but still soft inside, which makes every bite feel crispy yet soft.

Evening time is when I mostly make this especially when there are 2-3 idlis lying in the fridge. It hardly takes time and taste also comes good even with basic ingredients. You don't need any chutney or side dish, just sprinkle some chaat masala and it's ready to eat. For tea time this fits perfectly.

Jump to:

• About Idli Fry
• Idli Fry Ingredients
• Similar Recipes
• How to make Idli Fry Step by Step
• Expert Tips
• Serving and Storage
• FAQS
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About Idli Fry

Idli Fry is nothing but leftover idlis cut into small pieces and deep fried till crispy. After frying, I just sprinkle a little chaat masala or sometimes even podi if I want spicy. It is such a simple snack idea but taste-wise it comes out too good. The crispiness is the main thing here and you get that perfect crunch when idlis are properly cooled before frying.

This snack is quite common in South Indian homes, especially when we don't want to make usual podi idli or upma. Some people also make baked version or use air fryer if they don't want deep fry. There's also a version where sauces are added to make it like chilli idli but that needs more prep. For quick fix, this plain idli fry is enough.

Texture is something that makes this snack stand out. The outside layer becomes crispy and inside stays soft, so the bite is very nice. I cut the idlis into cubes mostly but sometimes even strips or triangle shapes just for fun. You can also play around with masala, I sometimes use just pepper powder or even pav bhaji masala if I feel like.

I mostly make this during lazy weekends or when I feel like eating something hot with tea. When my daughter is home early, I quickly fry some for her. She likes it plain with tomato sauce. Sometimes I even pack it in her snack box and it stays fine for short time. No chutney or sambar needed, it tastes good on its own also.

Idli fry is a delicious, crispy dish made by baking or frying the Idlis with spices & masala. Idli fry is a nice alternative option to the regular snacks. I loved both versions but obviously the deep fried version scored a little more than the baked version. I usually make idli upma with leftover idli which is my favorite anytime.

This idli fry can be had as such or can be accompanied with tomato ketchup. I made this idli fry(deep fried version)in the morning and then served it for mittu as evening after school snack, still the crispness was there and she loved it. I had the baked version soon after the photo shoot itself, it was super spicy and yum.

Idli Fry Ingredients

• Idlis - I used fresh idlis so refrigerated for a while then used. If you use fresh idlis as such it may start sticking while frying in oil.
• Oil - This is for deep frying, It gives a nice crispy texture. You can also air fry or bake it if you want low oil version.
• Spice powders - Chat masala powder, red chili powder, garam masala powders can be used.

Why This Recipe Works

• Gets done quickly and can be served as a after school snack.
• Can be made with leftover idlis.
• Turns our crisp and crunchy with minimal ingredients.
• Kids will love this as finger food or snack box item.
• You can customize with spice powders or sauces as you like.

Similar Recipes

• Veg Grilled Sandwich
• Sprouts Sandwich
• Onion bajji
• Bread bajji
• Masala vadai

How to make Idli Fry Step by Step

Deep Fried Version

1.For the deep fried version - Heat oil in a kadai, add the idli pieces and deep fry them till golden brown. Drain in tissue paper. Sprinkle chat masala powder and serve.

Baked Version

1.If your idlis are fresh then refrigerate for at least an hour then cut it. If you are using a day old idlis then you can directly proceed. Cut the idlis lengthwise, Set aside. Preheat oven at 180 deg C. Take a plate add oil, salt, red chili powder and garam masala powders, mix it well. Now coat the idli pieces with this spice mix. I used 2 idlis for deep frying and 2 for baking.

2.Coat such that the spice mix is even both sides. Arrange the idli pieces in a baking tray. Bake in preheated oven at 180 deg C for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn crisp, turn over to other side in between.

Serve hot!

Expert Tips

• Use a day old idlis - Make sure idlis are little firm before frying. If using fresh ones, refrigerate them for 30 minutes.
• Cut sizes evenly - Try to cut the idlis into even-sized pieces so that it fries evenly. I keep some small and some big for variety.
• Hot Oil - Make sure oil is hot before dropping the idli pieces. If not, it will soak up oil and become greasy.
• Fry in small batches - Try not to overcrowd the kadai. I fry small pieces in one batch and big ones in another for even cooking.
• Season while hot - Sprinkle the chaat masala or any spice right after frying. It sticks better when the idlis are hot.

Serving and Storage

Serve them hot with some tomato ketchup or green chutney. This goes well for evening snack time with tea or coffee. I sometimes even serve it like a quick starter when guests come without notice.

Store leftovers, in a box and keep in fridge. Before serving, reheat it on tawa or oven. It may not be as crispy like fresh, but still taste good. Better to eat it hot straight after frying.

FAQS

1.Can I use fresh idlis?

Yes, just chill them a bit before frying else it may break.

2.Can I shallow fry?

Yes, but won't be that crispy and may turn soggy.

3.What to use instead of chaat masala?

Try pepper, podi or mixed herbs.

4.Can I make it ahead?

Yes, but serve soon while it's still hot.

5.Is it good for lunch box?

Yes, pack in foil with some ketchup.

If you have any more questions about this Idli Fry do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest ,Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Idli Fry ? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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