Savory Cabbage and Carrot Uttapam with Capsicum and Ginger

1.Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the rice flour, gram flour, salt, and baking soda (if using). Gradually add water while whisking continuously until you achieve a smooth, thick pouring consistency, similar to pancake batter—it should be thicker than dosa batter.

2.Rest the Batter: Cover the batter and let it rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. This allows the rice flour to hydrate properly.

3.Prepare the Toppings: While the batter rests, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped onion, chopped tomato, chopped capsicum, minced ginger, minced garlic, and half of the chopped spring onions in a separate bowl. Mix well.

4.Heat the Griddle: Heat a non-stick tawa or cast-iron griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a few drops of oil.

5.Cook the Uttapam: Once the griddle is hot, pour a ladleful of batter onto the center. Gently spread it in a thick, circular pancake shape (about 6-7 inches in diameter). Do not spread it too thin like a dosa.

6.Add Toppings: Immediately and evenly sprinkle a generous amount of the vegetable mixture over the surface of the wet batter. Gently press the vegetables into the batter using the back of the ladle.

7.Cook the First Side: Drizzle about 1/2 teaspoon of oil around the edges and over the top of the uttapam. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the edges look dry and the base is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.

8.Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the uttapam using a wide spatula. Cook the second side for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through and the vegetables are slightly softened. Sprinkle lightly with black pepper.

9.Serve: Slide the finished Uttapam onto a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and vegetable mixture, greasing the pan lightly between each batch.

10.Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the hot Uttapams with the remaining fresh spring onions and serve immediately with coconut chutney or sambar (if available).