Uttapam- A Healthy and Indian Version of Pizza

India is famous for its wide range of diversities in culture, climate, religion and traditions. Similarly, there is range of diversities in Indian cuisine revealing rich cultural and traditional heritage of different parts of the territory. South Indian cuisine is not only famous for its healthier versions but is also made using different spices which one hardly finds in different parts of the world. Uttapam is not only good in taste but is highly nutritious. It is nothing like dosa, so do not get confused, yet it is devoured along with the famous sambar and coconut chutney.

In this fast pacing world, we hardly pay attention to our health and keep on eating ignoring the nutritional content of the food. Uttapam, along with the delicious taste is highly healthy and is preferred by those who don’t have enough time to cook on their own. In traditional Uttapam recipe, rice and white lentils are soaked overnight and is further blended and left for fermentation. After proper fermentation, the batter is spread on the hot pan and few toppings are added to it and cooked until it gets crispier on both the sides.

Uttapam Recipe

Ingredients used in an Uttapam recipe

When traditional methodology is considered, the basic ingredients used for making Uttapam are:

• Rice
• White or black lentils (udaad daal)
• The toppings including onion, tomato, capsicum, coriander leaves, etc.

However, there are different Uttapam versions as well:

• Instant uttapam is made while adding semolina or Sooji to the curd or buttermilk. These are also healthier and good appetizer. 
• Veg uttapam and oats uttapam is also a healthier and quicker version. These are extremely rich in nutrients.

Uttapam is served with the sambhar or chutney or sauces. Onion uttapam, basically, has chopped onions in its toppings. Similarly, tomato and onion tomato comprise different toppings like tomato and onion and tomato respectively. Masala uttapam is the preferred breakfast option and are composed of fried toppings. Grated cheese can also be used to garnish it to provide a tastier touch to it. 

Nutritional information of Uttapam

Uttapam can be either plain or stuffed depending upon one’s choice. When nutritional information is concerned, the plain one is low in calories and is rich in nutrition. However, other options like veg, oats and masala uttapam also does not make much difference. The only difference is in the type of toppings added to it. 

Basically, uttapam is cooked in low oil. However, if high amount of oil is used or is shallow fried, it can increase the cholesterol level and fat content in the body if consumed. It would be wise to use olive oil instead of vegetable or palm oil. Depending upon your taste mood and regular intake, appropriately consider how much serving to take at a time. Stay healthy and enjoy the better version of dosa in the form of Uttapam.