Uttapam
Meal Prep · South Indian

Uttapam

Fluffy, savory South Indian pancakes, loaded with your favorite veggies!

Prep: 15 min (plus 8-12 hr fermentation)
🔥Cook: 30 min
Total: 45 min (active)
🍽4 servings
Vegetarian
Uttapam

Ingredients

Tap to check off

Method

Step-by-step
  1. If using homemade batter, ensure it is well fermented and at room temperature. If using store-bought, bring it to room temperature.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, green chilies, coriander leaves, and grated ginger (if using). Mix well.
  3. Heat a non-stick tawa or cast-iron griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a few drops of oil or ghee.
  4. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot tawa and spread it gently in a thick, circular motion, about 5-6 inches in diameter. Do not spread it too thin like a dosa.
  5. Immediately sprinkle a generous amount of the prepared vegetable mixture evenly over the uttapam. Gently press the vegetables into the batter with the back of a spoon.
  6. Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of oil or ghee around the edges and over the top of the uttapam.
  7. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and the edges start to crisp up. The top should look almost cooked.
  8. Carefully flip the uttapam and cook on the other side for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to cook slightly and the uttapam to become golden brown.
  9. Remove from the tawa and serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or peanut chutney. Repeat with the remaining batter and vegetable mixture.

Nutrition

Per serving
NutrientAmount
Calories280 kcal
Protein8 g
Carbohydrates45 g
Fat8 g
Fiber4 g

Storage & Freezer Guide

Make it last
Refrigerator 3-4 days

Store leftover uttapam in an airtight container once cooled. For best texture, store the batter and cooked uttapam separately.

Freezer Up to 1 month

To freeze cooked uttapam, let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between and wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. The batter can also be frozen for up to 2-3 weeks.

Reheat Stovetop/Microwave

Reheat uttapam on a lightly greased tawa over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy. Alternatively, microwave for 30-60 seconds, but the texture will be softer.

Chef’s Corner

  • For extra flavor and nutrition, add finely grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or even a sprinkle of grated paneer to your vegetable topping.
  • Ensure your batter is at the right consistency – not too thick (it won’t spread) and not too thin (it will be difficult to flip). If too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
  • A well-fermented batter is key for soft, porous uttapams. If your batter isn’t fermenting well, try placing it in a warm spot in your kitchen or oven (turned off, with just the light on).
Scroll to Top