Cheese uttapam pizza

Hello, food lovers! Today, we're going to speak about something quite exciting: a meal that combines two of the world's most popular(South Indian and Italian) cuisines. Prepare to discover the wonder of Cheese Uttapam Pizza!

What is the Cheese Uttapam Pizza?

​Before we get started on the recipe, let's go over the basics of this delicious dish. Consider taking a traditional South Indian uttapam and adding an Italian flavor. That is precisely what we are doing here!

If you're not familiar, uttapam is a thick pancake prepared with rice and lentil batter. It is frequently garnished with vegetables and served with chutney and sambar. Consider that uttapam the base filled with melted cheese and your favorite pizza toppings. That sounds fantastic, doesn't it?

This fusion meal is ideal for those moments when you can't decide between Indian and Italian cuisine. It's also an excellent method to expose youngsters (or finicky eaters) to Indian flavors in a familiar pizza-style format.

Let's Get Cooking!

Now that we know what we're making, let's gather our ingredients and start cooking. Don't worry if you've never made uttapam before - I'll guide you through each step.

Ingredients:

For the uttapam batter:

• 2 cups rice
• 1 cup urad dal (black gram)
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• Salt to taste
• Water for soaking and grinding

For the pizza toppings:

• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons oil for cooking

Other things you'll need:

• A big bowl for soaking
• A grinder or blender
• A non-stick pan or tawa
• A spatula
• A cheese grater
• A knife for chopping veggies

Now, Let's Get Cooking!

Step 1: Preparing the Uttapam Batter

First things first, we need to make our uttapam batter. This is the base of our pizza, so it's important to get it right.

1. Rinse the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds separately. Then, soak them together in enough water to cover them completely. Let them soak for about 4-5 hours or overnight.
2. After soaking, drain the water and grind the mixture in a blender. Add water little by little while grinding to get a smooth batter. The consistency should be like that of pancake batter - not too thick, not too thin.
3. Transfer the batter to a large bowl and add salt to taste. Mix well.
4. Cover the bowl and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 8-10 hours or overnight. This fermentation is what gives uttapam its signature tangy flavor.

Step 2: Making the Uttapam Pizza

Now that our batter is ready, it's time for the fun part - making our uttapam pizza!

1. Heat a non-stick tava or griddle on medium heat. 
2. Once hot, pour a ladleful of batter in the center and spread it in a circular motion to make a thick pancake about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Drizzle a little oil around the edges of the uttapam.
4. Now, here's where we start turning our uttapam into a pizza. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the uttapam, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle some grated cheese over the sauce.
6. Add your choice of toppings - chopped bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and corn kernels work great.
7. Sprinkle some more cheese on top of the veggies.
8. Cover the tava with a lid and cook on medium heat until the bottom of the uttapam is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese on top has melted.
9. Sprinkle some dried oregano and red chili flakes (if using) on top.
10. Slide the uttapam pizza onto a plate and serve hot!

Tips for the Perfect Cheese Uttapam Pizza

1. Don't rush the fermentation: The fermentation process is crucial for getting that perfect tangy flavor in your uttapam. If you're short on time, you can add a pinch of baking soda to the batter to help it ferment faster.
2. Get creative with toppings: While I've suggested some basic veggie toppings, feel free to experiment. Sliced mushrooms, jalapenos, olives, or even some paneer (Indian cottage cheese) could be great additions.
3. Cheese matters: Mozzarella is great for that classic stretchy pizza cheese pull, but you could mix it up with some cheddar for extra flavor.
4. Keep it crispy: Make sure your tava or griddle is hot before you start cooking. This will ensure that your uttapam base gets nice and crispy.
5. Don't overload: While it's tempting to pile on the toppings, remember that too many toppings can make your uttapam soggy. A light hand works best here.

Why You'll Love This Dish

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Cheese Uttapam Pizza:

1. It's the best of both worlds: You get the tangy, fermented flavor of uttapam combined with the cheesy goodness of pizza. What's not to love?
2. It's versatile: You can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it perfect for family meals where everyone has different preferences.
3. It's healthier than regular pizza: The uttapam base is made from rice and lentils, which means it's packed with protein and fiber.
4. It's a great way to use leftover uttapam batter: If you've made too much batter for your regular uttapam, this is a fun way to use it up.
5. It's perfect for any meal: Whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Cheese Uttapam Pizza fits right in.

Serving Suggestions

While Cheese Uttapam Pizza is delicious on its own, here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

1. Serve with a side of green chutney for dipping. The freshness of the chutney complements the cheesy pizza perfectly.

2. For a complete meal, serve with a light tomato soup on the side.

3. Cut the uttapam pizza into wedges and serve as an appetizer at your next party.

4. Pack it in your kid's lunchbox for a fun school meal.

FAQS

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftover Cheese Uttapam Pizza (though I doubt you will!), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly again.

Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic Cheese Uttapam Pizza, why not try some variations?

1. Margherita Uttapam Pizza: Keep it simple with just tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.

2. BBQ Chicken Uttapam Pizza: Spread some BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce, and top with cooked chicken pieces and red onions.

3. Pesto Uttapam Pizza: Swap the tomato sauce for pesto, and top with cherry tomatoes and pine nuts.

4. Dessert Uttapam Pizza: Spread some Nutella on your uttapam, top with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet treat.

A Bit of History

While we're enjoying our fusion creation, let's take a moment to appreciate the origins of our two star ingredients.

Uttapam has been a staple in South Indian cuisine for centuries. It's believed to have originated in the state of Tamil Nadu, where it's often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal.

Pizza, on the other hand, comes from Italy. While flatbreads with toppings have been eaten for centuries in many parts of the world, the modern pizza as we know it today originated in Naples in the late 18th or early 19th century.

By combining these two beloved dishes, we're not just creating a tasty meal - we're also celebrating the beautiful diversity of global cuisine!

Nutritional Benefits

Let's talk about why Cheese Uttapam Pizza isn't just delicious, but also nutritious:

1. Protein-packed: The urad dal in the uttapam batter is rich in protein, making this a more protein-rich base than traditional pizza dough.

2. Fiber-rich: Both rice and urad dal are good sources of dietary fiber, which is great for digestion.

3. Vitamin C: The bell peppers and tomatoes in the toppings provide a good dose of Vitamin C.

4. Calcium: Thanks to all that cheese, you're getting a good amount of calcium for strong bones and teeth.

5. Complex carbohydrates: The rice in the uttapam provides complex carbs for sustained energy.

Nutrition chart

I'll create a more visually organized nutrition chart for the Cheese Uttapam Pizza. Here's a clearer presentation of the nutritional information per serving:

Nutrition Facts: Cheese Uttapam Pizza
Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350-400 kcal
Carbohydrates	45-50 g
Protein	12-15 g
Fat	15-18 g
Fiber	3-4 g
Sodium	400-450 mg
Calcium	200-250 mg
Iron	2-3 mg
Vitamin C	15-20 mg
Vitamin A	300-350 IU

This chart provides a quick and easy-to-read overview of the key nutritional components in a serving of Cheese Uttapam Pizza. Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and exact portion sizes.

Remember, while this is a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, it's still best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best cooks sometimes run into problems. Here are some common issues you might face when making Cheese Uttapam Pizza, and how to solve them:

1. Batter too thin: If your batter is too runny, your uttapam won't hold its shape. Add a little rice flour to thicken it up.

2. Batter too thick: If it's too thick, your uttapam will be heavy and won't cook through properly. Add a little water to thin it out.

3. Uttapam sticking to the pan: Make sure your pan is hot enough before you start cooking. Also, don't be shy with the oil around the edges.

4. Toppings sliding off: This usually happens if you've added too many toppings. Try using less, or pressing them gently into the batter before adding the cheese.

5. Cheese not melting: If your cheese isn't melting properly, try covering the pan with a lid to trap the heat.

Pairing Suggestions

While Cheese Uttapam Pizza is a meal in itself, you might want to pair it with a drink or side dish. Here are some suggestions:

1. Masala Chai: The spiciness of chai complements the cheesy uttapam pizza perfectly.

2. Mango Lassi: For a cooling contrast to the hot pizza.

3. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing with pizza that works just as well with our fusion version.

4. Green Salad: For a light, refreshing side that balances out the richness of the pizza.

Final Thoughts

I hope this blog post has inspired you to try making Cheese Uttapam Pizza at home. It's a simple yet delicious way to bring together two beloved dishes from different parts of the world. The crispy uttapam base with melty cheese and fresh veggie toppings is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Cooking is a wonderful way to explore different cultures and flavors. By combining uttapam and pizza, we're not just making a tasty meal - we're also celebrating the diversity of food around the world. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start your own culinary adventure!

Don't forget to share your Cheese Uttapam Pizza creations with your friends and family. Who knows, you might just start a new food trend in your neighborhood!

Happy cooking, and even happier eating!