Discover the perfect blend of taste and health with these Crispy & Healthy Sooji Vegetable Pancakes. This versatile and nutritious dish, also known as Nutri Rava Veggie Pancakes, makes for an excellent breakfast, lunch, or light dinner option. Packed with fresh vegetables and bursting with flavor, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sooji (semolina)
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- Approximately 1 cup water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
- Oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
- Combine Sooji and Yogurt: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sooji and 1/2 cup of yogurt. Gradually add approximately 1 cup of water, mixing well to create a smooth batter similar in consistency to pancake batter. Let the batter rest for about 10-20 minutes to allow the sooji to absorb the liquid and swell.
- Adjust Consistency: After resting, check the batter’s consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Incorporate Vegetables: To the batter, add the grated carrot, chopped bell pepper, onion, spinach, and green chili if using. These vegetables not only add flavor but also increase the nutritional value of the pancakes.
- Season the Batter: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and salt to taste. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Finally, fold in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
3. Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Pour and Spread Batter: Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the skillet, spreading it slightly to form a pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side or until the edges look dry and the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the pancake and cook the other side until it is crispy and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
4. Serve:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the sooji vegetable pancakes hot, accompanied by chutney, yogurt, or your favorite dip on the side. These pancakes are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Why You’ll Love These Pancakes:
- Nutritious and Satisfying: These pancakes are packed with a variety of vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of sooji and yogurt makes them light yet filling.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The pancakes have a delightful crispy texture with the added crunch from the vegetables, making each bite a burst of flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or a quick meal.
Health Benefits:
- High in Fiber: The vegetables and sooji provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Rich in Nutrients: Spinach, carrots, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Protein-Packed: Yogurt and the optional addition of chickpeas (chickpea flour or whole) can boost the protein content, making these pancakes a well-rounded meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Consistent Batter: Ensure the batter is neither too thick nor too thin for the perfect pancake consistency.
- Even Cooking: Spread the batter evenly on the skillet for uniform cooking and a crispy texture.
Enjoy these Crispy & Healthy Sooji Vegetable Pancakes as a delightful and nutritious addition to your meal repertoire. They are perfect for a wholesome breakfast, a light lunch, or even a snack, providing you with a tasty way to enjoy a healthy diet!