Cheesy Podi Idli Sticks

Turn leftover idlis into something special. These Cheesy Podi Idli Sticks are crispy, a little spicy, and so easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• 24 idlis
• 4 tablespoons ghee
• 2 medium onions
• 24 cloves garlic
• 6 sprigs curry leaves
• 4 teaspoons red chili powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin powder
• 2 teaspoons sambar powder
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 8 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using freshly made idlis, ensure they are cooled completely. Slice all 24 idlis into thick finger-like sticks, about 1 inch wide and 2-3 inches long.
3. Finely chop 2 medium onions, 24 cloves garlic, and 6 sprigs curry leaves.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 teaspoons red chili powder, 2 teaspoons coriander powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 2 teaspoons cumin powder, 2 teaspoons sambar powder, and 1.5 teaspoons salt. This creates your podi masala base.
5. Heat 4 tablespoons ghee in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the chopped 2 medium onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
6. Add the finely chopped 24 cloves garlic and 6 sprigs curry leaves to the pan and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
7. Reduce the heat to low. Add the prepared podi masala from the mixing bowl into the pan with the cooked onions, garlic, and curry leaves. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the spices are fragrant.
8. Add the sliced 24 idli sticks to the pan. Gently toss to coat all the idli sticks evenly with the podi masala. Be careful not to break the idlis.
9. Transfer the coated idli sticks to a baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle 8 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the idli sticks.
10. Bake for 10-15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the idli sticks are golden brown and slightly crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven. Garnish with 4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar on the side.

View the interactive Cheesy Podi Idli Sticks recipe