Idli Dahi Bhalla

A quick and lighter take on dahi bhalla using soft steamed idli instead of the traditional bhalla. Topped with seasoned yogurt, mint chutney, sweet chutney, spices and fresh garnishes, it’s refreshing, colourful and full of classic chaat-style flavour.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Vegetarian

Servings: 1

Nutrition per serving:

131 kcal • Protein 5 g • Fat 3 g • Carbs 21 g

Ingredients

• 1 idli
• 100 g yogurt
• Red chilli powder
• Roasted jeera powder
• Mint chutney
• Sweet chutney made with Coke Zero
• Salt
• Pomegranate seeds, for garnishing
• Coriander leaves, for garnishing
• Green chilli, for garnishing
• Ginger, for garnishing

Method

1. Steam the idli and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Using a small pastry cutter, cut the idli into neat bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use mini steamed idlis.
3. In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add a little water if needed to loosen the consistency.
4. Season the yogurt with salt, red chilli powder and roasted jeera powder. Mix well.
5. Add the steamed idli pieces to the seasoned yogurt and let them soak briefly so they soften and absorb the flavours.
6. Transfer everything to a serving bowl.
7. Top with mint chutney, sweet chutney and a little extra yogurt.
8. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, coriander leaves, thinly sliced green chilli and ginger.
9. Serve fresh.

Ippitizer Note

Soft steamed idli works especially well here because it absorbs the seasoned yogurt while staying tender, giving the dish a dahi-bhalla-like feel without needing to fry anything. Mini idlis are also a great option when you want an even neater presentation.