When the vibrant colors of fall begin to paint the world around us, it’s the perfect time to bring some cheer into the kitchen with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is nutritious. Enter Beetroot Appe—these delightful, fluffy bites are not just visually stunning with their rosy hue, but they’re also packed with flavor and goodness.
I discovered this gem of a recipe while reorganizing my pantry, uncovering leftover idli dosa batter that needed a new life. With just a splash of creativity, I transformed it into these adorable snacks that kids (and adults!) can’t resist. In a mere 25 minutes, you can whip up a healthy breakfast or snack option that’s not only kid-friendly but also a fun way to sneak in some veggies.
What makes these Beetroot Appe truly special is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with other purees like spinach or carrot to mix things up. So, dust off that appe pan and let’s dive into a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Why will you adore Beetroot Appe?
Colorful and inviting, these Beetroot Appe are a feast for the eyes as much as the palate! Quick to whip up, they transform leftover idli dosa batter into delightful snacks in just 25 minutes. Nutritious goodness shines through with every bite—packed with fiber and vitamins while being gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. Kid-approved, they are an exciting way to incorporate healthy veggies into your children’s meals. Plus, these bites are a blank canvas, allowing you to play with flavors by adding different purees or spices! Enjoy them warm with chutney for a tasty treat everyone will love.
Beetroot Appe Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this vibrant dish with the following essentials!
For the Batter
- Idli Dosa Batter – This is the backbone of your Beetroot Appe, giving it structure and flavor; feel free to opt for store-bought if time is tight.
- Beetroot Puree – Provides natural sweetness and a beautiful pink color; ensure you use cooked beetroot for a silky texture.
- Onion – Adds moisture and enhances flavor; finely chopped leeks or shallots work as great substitutes if you prefer.
- Curry Leaves – These lend an authentic Indian aroma; while optional, I highly recommend them for that extra flavor punch.
- Jeera (Cumin Seeds) – Infuses warmth into the batter; mustard seeds can be swapped for a different taste experience.
- Salt – A little sprinkle is crucial for flavor; adjust the amount based on your batter’s pre-seasoning.
- Ghee or Oil – Use this for cooking; ghee offers a nutty richness, but regular cooking oil will do just fine if you prefer.
How to Make Beetroot Appe
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the idli dosa batter, beetroot puree, chopped onion, curry leaves, cumin seeds, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined, ensuring vibrant pink color throughout.
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Heat the Pan: Place an appe pan on medium heat and add a few drops of ghee or oil into each mould. Let it heat until the oil shimmers, ensuring a non-stick surface for your delicious bites.
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Fill the Moulds: Pour about a tablespoon of the batter mixture into each mould, filling them about 3/4 full. This allows room for them to puff up beautifully while cooking.
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Cook Covered: Cover the pan and let the appe cook for 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye out until they rise and firm up, indicating they’re ready for the next step.
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Flip and Finish: Carefully flip each appe using a spoon, allowing them to cook for another 2 minutes until they’re golden brown on both sides. This ensures a crispy outer layer while keeping them fluffy inside.
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Serve Hot: Remove the Beetroot Appe from the pan and serve them hot with your favorite chutney. The contrast of flavors will make for a delightful snack!
Optional: Garnish with fresh coriander for a burst of green color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Beetroot Appe?
Brighten your meal table with delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavor and fun of your Beetroot Appe.
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Coconut Chutney: A classic pairing, this chutney adds a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness that complements the earthy beetroot beautifully.
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Tomato Chutney: The tangy flavor of tomato chutney offers a zesty contrast to the mild sweetness of beetroot, making for an exciting taste experience.
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Yogurt Dip: Cool and refreshing, a yogurt dip balances the spices in the appe while adding a delightful creaminess that kids adore.
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Vegetable Sambar: Serve with a bowl of sambar for a hearty meal; its spiced lentils bring warmth and depth, making this a comforting combination.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp cucumber and tomato salad adds crunch and freshness, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy appe.
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Masala Tea: The warmth of spiced masala tea pairs perfectly, turning breakfast into a cozy experience that everyone in the family will enjoy.
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Fruit Chaat: End on a sweet note with a fruity chaat; the sweetness of seasonal fruits pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the appe.
Make Ahead Options
These Beetroot Appe are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the batter by mixing the idli dosa batter, beetroot puree, and other ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent any browning. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the appe pan, fill the molds with the prepped batter, and follow the usual cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, fluffy Beetroot Appe ready in no time, making breakfast smoothies and sit-down family meals easier and more enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Beetroot Appe
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Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is thick enough to hold its shape but not too thick to pour effortlessly. Adjust with water if necessary.
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Non-Stick Pan: For best results, use a non-stick appe pan. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Flavor Boost: For a flavor twist, consider adding hing (asafoetida), finely chopped green chilies, or grated ginger to the batter.
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Cooking Time: Keep a close watch during cooking; flipping too early can lead to flat appe. Wait until they rise and firm up for optimal results.
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Chutney Pairing: Serve your Beetroot Appe with coconut chutney or tomato chutney for a delicious contrast of flavors and added moisture.
How to Store and Freeze Beetroot Appe
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Room Temperature: Beetroot Appe are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 2 hours at room temperature if necessary. Make sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out.
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Fridge: Store leftover Beetroot Appe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their moisture and flavor before reheating.
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Freezer: Freeze individual beetroot appe by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
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Reheating: Reheat from frozen or chilled in a skillet with a little oil for 4-5 minutes, or microwaving for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, to maintain their fluffy texture.
Beetroot Appe Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize these delicious bites by exploring flavorful twists and nutritious swaps!
- Spinach Swap: Replace beetroot puree with spinach puree for a vibrant green version that packs even more nutrients.
- Carrot Variation: Use carrot puree instead of beetroot for a naturally sweet and colorful twist. Carrots add a delightful hint of sweetness, making them irresistible!
- Mixed Veggies: Toss in finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to add texture and health benefits. This provides a garden-fresh crunch in each bite.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with spices such as turmeric or garam masala for a unique flavor profile that brings warmth and complexity to your appe.
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate finely chopped herbs like coriander or mint for an aromatic freshness that elevates the overall taste experience.
- Cheesy Twist: Add grated cheese to the batter for a rich, savory flavor that kids will love! It melts beautifully, enhancing the texture of each appe.
- Nutty Flavor: Include crushed nuts like cashews or peanuts for added crunch and richness. They provide a delightful textural contrast within the fluffy exterior.
- Heat Level: If your family enjoys a little kick, throw in some chopped green chilies or red pepper flakes to spice things up. Just enough heat can make a big difference!
Beetroot Appe Recipe FAQs
What kind of beetroot should I use for the puree?
Absolutely! I recommend using cooked beetroot for the puree, as it offers a silky texture and natural sweetness. You can either steam or boil the beetroot until tender before blending it into a smooth puree. Avoid using raw beetroot as it can result in a grainy texture.
How should I store leftover Beetroot Appe?
To keep your delicious Beetroot Appe fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember, they taste best when reheated in a skillet with a drizzle of oil for 4-5 minutes, ensuring they regain their fluffy texture.
Can I freeze Beetroot Appe?
Absolutely! To freeze your Beetroot Appe, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from frozen in a skillet for 4-5 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
What if my batter is too thin or too thick?
If your batter is too thin, simply add a bit more idli dosa batter to thicken it up. If it’s too thick, you can gently mix in a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach a smooth pouring consistency. The final texture should hold shape but still be easy to pour into the moulds.
Are Beetroot Appe suitable for kids with allergies?
Yes! These Beetroot Appe are vegetarian and gluten-free, making them a nutritious snack option for many dietary needs. However, always check the labels on pre-made idli dosa batter for potential allergens. If your child has specific allergies, feel free to swap in safe ingredients, like using different vegetables or avoiding ghee if dairy is an issue.
Beetroot Appe: Brighten Breakfast with This Healthy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the idli dosa batter, beetroot puree, chopped onion, curry leaves, cumin seeds, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Place an appe pan on medium heat and add a few drops of ghee or oil into each mould. Let it heat until the oil shimmers.
- Pour about a tablespoon of the batter mixture into each mould, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Cover the pan and let the appe cook for 2-3 minutes until they rise and firm up.
- Carefully flip each appe using a spoon, allowing them to cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the Beetroot Appe from the pan and serve them hot with your favorite chutney.