Idli Manchurian

Idli Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish, and made several different ways. Idli Manchurian is a super delicious appetizer or main dish. I prepare this dish when I have leftover idlies. Idli Manchurian satisfies your savory and spicy cravings!

4.75 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Breakfast

Cuisine Indian

Servings 3 people

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 idlies I am using left over idlies, I do have the recipe for idli
• 2 cups sliced yellow and green bell pepper use any color bell pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 Tbsp oil for stir-frying idlies and bell pepper

For Sauce

• 6 whole red chilies
• 2 Tbsp oil canola or vegetable oil
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp vinegar
• 1 Tbsp ginger paste or finely grated ginger adrak
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp sugar
• 2 tsp corn starch or arrow root powder
• 1 cup water

Instructions

 

• Boil the red chilies in about 1/2 cup of water until they are tender. Let them cool off. In a blender blend all the sauce ingredients together oil, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, tomato paste, sugar, and corn starch if needed add more water.
• Boil the sauce over medium heat. Sauce should be pouring consistency. Set aside.
• Cut the idlies into bite size pieces, I have cut the idlies in 6 pieces. Heat the oil in frying pan over medium high heat. Add idlies and sprinkle the salt. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until idlies are lightly golden brown, take them out and set aside.
• In the same pan stir fry bell pepper 2-3 minutes, do not overcook the bell pepper, they taste better when they are still crisp. Add the stir-fry idlies to bell peppers. Pour the sauce and stir gently making sure idlies are coated well. Turn off the heat.
• Idli Manchurian is ready. Take them out in a serving bowl.

Notes

Manchurian makes a delicious lunch box meal. Also, try Gobi Manchurian, Masala Idli, and Rava Idli.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

How to Make Idli Manchurian: A Flavorful Fusion Delight

Idli Manchurian is a delightful fusion dish that combines the softness of idlis with the zingy flavors of Indo-Chinese Manchurian sauce. If you’re looking to tantalize your taste buds with a unique twist on traditional idlis, this recipe is perfect for you. Here’s how to make idli manchurian at home, transforming simple idlis into a mouthwatering delicacy.

Step 1: Preparing Idlis

Start by making idlis using your preferred method. You can either use leftover idlis or make fresh ones specifically for this recipe. Idlis are a staple South Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Their soft and fluffy texture serves as an excellent base for absorbing the flavors of the Manchurian sauce.

Step 2: Cutting Idlis into Bite-sized Pieces

Once the idlis are ready, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. This step ensures that the idlis are evenly coated with the Manchurian sauce, allowing for maximum flavor infusion in every bite. The size of the idli pieces can vary based on your preference, but smaller pieces tend to work best for this dish.

Step 3: Making Manchurian Sauce

Next, prepare the Manchurian sauce. This tangy and spicy sauce is the highlight of the dish, adding depth and complexity to the idlis. The sauce typically consists of a combination of ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, green chilies, and cornstarch for thickening. You can adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.

Step 4: Frying Idli Pieces

Heat oil in a pan and gently fry the idli pieces until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Frying the idlis adds a delicious crunch to the dish, contrasting with the softness of the idlis and complementing the texture of the Manchurian sauce.

Step 5: Tossing Idlis in Manchurian Sauce

Once the idlis are fried to perfection, add them to the prepared Manchurian sauce. Toss the idlis gently until they are evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring that each piece is infused with the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Garnishing and Serving

Garnish the Idli Manchurian wor cilantro for a pop of freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy this tantalizing fusion dish as a snack or appetizer.

Tips for Perfect Idli Manchurian:

• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of green chilies or chili sauce in the Manchurian sauce. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the quantity of these ingredients.
• Experiment with Additions: Get creative with your Idli Manchurian by adding diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Idli Manchurian is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so serve it immediately after tossing the idlis in the Manchurian sauce to preserve its crispy texture.
• Use Leftover Idlis: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover idlis from previous meals, giving them a delicious makeover with the flavors of Manchurian sauce.
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Variations to Explore:

• Paneer Idli Manchurian: Substitute paneer cubes for idlis to create a delectable Paneer Manchurian dish with a twist.
• Gobi Idli Manchurian: Replace idlis with crispy cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version of Gobi Manchurian with a South Indian flair.

Benefits of Idli Manchurian:

• Rich in Flavor: Idli Manchurian combines the best of South Indian and Chinese cuisines, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: This dish can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Idli Manchurian is easy to prepare at home, even for beginners in the kitchen.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients and spice levels according to your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use store-bought idlis for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use store-bought idlis if you don’t have time to make them from scratch. Simply cut them into pieces and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is Idli Manchurian spicy?

• The spice level of Idli Manchurian can be adjusted according to your preference. You can make it mild or spicy by controlling the amount of green chilies or chili sauce added to the Manchurian sauce.

Can I make Idli Manchurian ahead of time?

• While Idli Manchurian is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the idlis.

Can I freeze leftover Idli Manchurian?

• It’s not recommended to freeze Idli Manchurian as the texture of the idlis may become soggy upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy it fresh for the best taste and texture.

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