How to Make Cheese Uttapam (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cheese Uttapam is a delicious and nutritious variation of the classic South Indian uttapam, a thick, savoury pancake made from fermented rice and urad dal (split black gram) batter. Originating from Tamil Nadu and popular across the southern states, uttapam is often enjoyed as a wholesome breakfast or lunch. Adding cheese gives it a modern twist, making it even more appealing to both adults and children. The combination of melty cheese with crunchy vegetables and aromatic herbs atop a soft, tangy uttapam creates a vibrant flavour profile. In India, uttapam is typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, especially during festivals like Pongal and Navratri, when vegetarian dishes are preferred. Cheese Uttapam is a perfect lunch option for busy weekdays, offering a balance of protein, fibre, and healthy fats. The dish is customizable—choose your favourite regional vegetables or experiment with different Indian cheeses. Its roots in traditional South Indian cuisine make it a staple in many households, enjoyed for its taste, nutrition, and cultural significance.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fermented dosa batter (Made from rice and urad dal; known as 'batter' in South India)
- 1/2 cup Grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat processed cheese (Amul or Britannia)
- 1/2 cup Onion (Finely chopped; 'pyaz')
- 1/2 cup Tomato (Finely chopped; 'tamatar')
- 1/2 cup Capsicum (Green bell pepper; 'shimla mirch')
- 1 Green chilli (Finely chopped; 'hari mirch')
- 2 tbsp Coriander leaves (Finely chopped; 'dhaniya')
- to taste Salt (Preferably Himalayan pink salt)
- 1 tbsp Oil (For greasing the tawa; use cold-pressed oil)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare all vegetables: finely chop onion
Prepare all vegetables: finely chop onion, tomato, capsicum, green chilli, and coriander leaves. Grate paneer and cheese.
Step 2 · Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame
Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame. Grease lightly with oil.
Step 3 · Pour a ladleful of dosa batter onto the tawa
Pour a ladleful of dosa batter onto the tawa. Spread gently to form a thick circle (about 6 inches diameter).
Step 4 · Immediately sprinkle chopped onion
Immediately sprinkle chopped onion, tomato, capsicum, green chilli, and coriander leaves evenly over the batter.
Step 5 · Add grated paneer and cheese evenly on top
Add grated paneer and cheese evenly on top. Sprinkle salt as desired.
Step 6 · Cover tawa with a lid
Cover tawa with a lid. Cook on medium flame for 5-7 minutes until the base turns golden and cheese melts.
Step 7 · Flip the uttapam gently and cook for 1-2 minutes on the other side
Flip the uttapam gently and cook for 1-2 minutes on the other side. Remove from tawa.
Step 8 · Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar for a complete meal
Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar for a complete meal.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Cheese Uttapam recipe is a healthy choice thanks to its high protein content, fibre-rich vegetables, and probiotic benefits from fermented batter. It’s easily customizable for weight loss or diabetes management by choosing low-fat cheese and adding more veggies. Uttapam is filling yet light, making it ideal for lunch without causing sluggishness. The use of minimal oil and fresh ingredients ensures nutrient density and lower calorie count, perfect for calorie-conscious individuals.
A note on tradition
Cheese Uttapam has its roots in South India, where uttapam is a staple during festivals like Pongal, Navratri, and local harvest celebrations. Traditionally made with locally sourced rice and urad dal, uttapam is enjoyed for its comforting taste and nutritional value. The addition of cheese and paneer gives it a contemporary twist, making it popular among younger generations and urban households. It’s typically eaten for breakfast or lunch, accompanied by chutneys and sambar, and is a beloved dish in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.