Beetroot Appe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those mornings when I crave something vibrant and healthy. I remember the first time I tried these pink delights at a friend’s house; the aroma of spices and the beautiful color instantly captivated me. It was a revelation—a delicious, easy beetroot appe recipe that transformed simple batter into a nutritious snack. These savory beetroot appe are not just a treat for the eyes but also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, making them a healthy beetroot appe snack for the whole family. The soft, fluffy texture and mild flavor make them utterly irresistible. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Beetroot Appe
I genuinely believe you’ll adore this Beetroot Appe recipe for so many reasons. It’s quickly become a family favorite in my home, and I’m sure it will in yours too!
- These vibrant pink appe offer a delightful savory taste with a hint of earthy sweetness from the beetroot.
- They are incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon snack.
- This recipe is a wonderfully healthy beetroot appe snack, packed with nutrients from fresh beets.
- It’s a budget-friendly option, often using leftover idli dosa batter and common pantry staples.
- The bright color makes this a fun and healthy beetroot appe snack that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- These appe are super versatile, great for breakfast, a light lunch, or even an appetizer.
Ingredients for Beetroot Appe
Gathering the right Beetroot appe ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful pink appe. I always make sure I have these on hand for a quick and healthy snack.
- 2 cups Idli Dosa Batter – store-bought is perfectly fine for convenience, ensuring your Beetroot Appe are quick to prepare.
- 1 cup Beetroot Puree – I typically use cooked beetroot that I’ve blended until smooth. This is where the beautiful color comes from!
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped – about half a cup, this adds a lovely aromatic base to your savory beetroot appe.
- 10 Curry Leaves – optional, but I find they add an incredible, authentic South Indian aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Jeera (Cumin Seeds) – you can also substitute with mustard seeds for a slightly different flavor profile in your Beetroot Appe.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt – adjust this to your taste, especially if your idli dosa batter is already pre-seasoned.
- 2 tablespoons Ghee or Oil – for cooking in the appe pan, ghee gives a richer flavor, but oil works just as well for these nutritious appe with beetroot.

How to Make Beetroot Appe
Making Beetroot Appe is surprisingly simple, and I promise, the vibrant results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy Beetroot appe cooking instructions to create perfectly fluffy and flavorful appe every time.
- Step 1: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your idli dosa batter, the beautiful beetroot puree, finely chopped onion, optional curry leaves, cumin seeds, and salt. I find that using a whisk helps to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, making sure that gorgeous pink color is uniform throughout.
- Step 2: Place an appe pan on your stovetop over medium heat. This is crucial for even cooking. Add a few drops of ghee or oil into each and every mould. Let it heat gently until the oil shimmers; you’ll see it start to move fluidly, indicating it’s ready.
- Step 3: Once the pan is hot, carefully pour about a tablespoon of the batter mixture into each mould. Don’t overfill them; aim for about 3/4 full to allow room for the appe to rise. You’ll notice the batter beginning to set around the edges almost immediately.
- Step 4: Cover the pan with a lid. This traps the steam, helping the Beetroot Appe to cook through and become wonderfully puffy. Let them cook for approximately 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they appear risen and firm to the touch on the top side.
- Step 5: Using a small spoon or a wooden skewer, carefully flip each appe. This part is quite satisfying! Allow them to cook for another 2 minutes on the other side until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through. These Beetroot appe cooking instructions ensure a perfect texture.
- Step 6: Remove the freshly cooked Beetroot Appe from the pan and serve them hot. I love pairing them with a fresh coconut chutney or a spicy tomato chutney for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious, homemade beetroot appe!
Pro Tips for the Best Beetroot Appe
I’ve learned a few tricks over time that truly elevate my Beetroot Appe from good to absolutely incredible. These expert tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked, vibrantly colored, and utterly delicious appe every single time.
- Always use fresh beetroot for the puree; its natural sweetness and vibrant color are unmatched.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the beetroot puree is added, as this can lead to a denser texture.
- Ensure your appe pan is properly heated before adding the batter for a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
- Adjust the salt carefully, especially if your idli dosa batter is already seasoned, to hit that perfect flavor balance.
What’s the secret to perfect Beetroot Appe?
The real secret to a perfect Beetroot Appe lies in the consistency of your batter and the heat of your pan. A well-rested, slightly fermented idli dosa batter combined with a fine beetroot puree creates the ideal base. This ensures your homemade beetroot appe are light, fluffy, and beautifully colored.
Can I make Beetroot Appe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter mixture for your Beetroot Appe up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just give it a gentle stir and proceed with the recipe. This makes healthy beetroot appe a fantastic meal prep option.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Beetroot Appe?
To avoid common mistakes with Beetroot Appe, first, ensure your pan isn’t too hot, which can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Second, don’t overfill the moulds, as this prevents proper cooking and flipping. Lastly, use a non-stick appe pan and a little oil for easy release and a perfect golden crust.
Best Ways to Serve Beetroot Appe
I always find that how you serve your Beetroot Appe can truly elevate the experience. These vibrant, healthy snacks are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.
For a delightful Beetroot appe for breakfast, I love pairing them with a fresh, homemade coconut chutney. The creamy, slightly sweet chutney perfectly complements the savory notes of the appe. Sometimes, I’ll also whip up a quick tomato-ginger chutney for a spicier kick.
Beyond breakfast, these delicious pink appe also make a fantastic appetizer or an afternoon snack. Serve them alongside a warm cup of filter coffee or masala chai. You can even offer a small bowl of sambar for dipping, turning them into a mini South Indian feast. The bright color and satisfying texture of these Beetroot Appe always impress my friends and family.
Nutrition Facts for Beetroot Appe
I always find it helpful to know what I’m putting into my body, especially with a healthy snack like Beetroot Appe. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving (this recipe makes about 4 pieces).
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Beetroot Appe.

How to Store and Reheat Beetroot Appe
I find that proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Beetroot Appe even after they’ve cooled. To keep them fresh, first, allow any leftover appe to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation and keeps them from getting soggy.
For refrigeration, place the cooled Beetroot Appe in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or snack later in the week. If you’re looking for a longer storage solution, these are also freezer-friendly!
To freeze, arrange individual Beetroot Appe in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic tip for quick beetroot appe preparation for busy mornings.
When it’s time to reheat, you have a few options. From frozen or chilled, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy. Alternatively, a microwave can reheat them in 1-2 minutes until warmed. Enjoy your perfectly reheated Beetroot Appe!
Frequently Asked Questions About Beetroot Appe
What is beetroot appe?
Beetroot Appe is a delightful and healthy South Indian snack made from a fermented batter, typically idli or dosa batter, combined with pureed beetroot and various seasonings. It’s cooked in a special pan with round molds, resulting in fluffy, colorful, and nutritious bite-sized dumplings. I love how it’s a creative way to incorporate vegetables into a traditional dish.
Can I use fresh beetroot for the puree, or does it need to be cooked first?
For the best results and to ensure proper cooking, I always recommend using cooked beetroot for the puree. Raw beetroot can be too fibrous and might not blend smoothly, affecting the texture of your Beetroot Appe. You can steam, boil, or roast the beetroot until tender before pureeing it.
What if I don’t have an appe pan? Can I still make Beetroot Appe?
While an appe pan (also known as a Paniyaram pan or Aebleskiver pan) is ideal for making perfect, spherical Beetroot Appe, you can still enjoy the flavors. You could try making small, thick pancakes on a regular griddle, similar to dosa, or even steam them in idli molds for a different texture. They won’t be traditional appe, but they’ll still be delicious and nutritious.
How can I make my Beetroot Appe even healthier?
To make your Beetroot Appe even healthier, consider adding finely grated carrots, spinach, or even some lentils to the batter for an extra boost of nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of ghee or oil used for cooking, opting for a non-stick appe pan. This ensures you’re getting maximum benefits from your nutritious appe with beetroot.
Variations of Beetroot Appe You Can Try
I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Beetroot Appe are a fantastic base for creative variations. You can easily tweak this delicious pink appe recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, I often add a finely chopped green chili or a pinch of red chili powder to the batter. This gives your Beetroot Appe a zesty kick that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by folding in finely grated carrots, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from watery vegetables to maintain the batter consistency for your healthy beetroot appe snack.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can try using a gluten-free idli dosa batter. This ensures everyone can enjoy these vibrant, nutritious appe.
- Cheese Stuffed Appe: For a delightful surprise, place a tiny cube of mozzarella or paneer in the center of each appe while cooking. The melted cheese inside your Beetroot Appe is a treat!
Amazing Beetroot Appe: 1 Incredible Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Beetroot Appe are vibrant, nutritious snacks made from leftover idli dosa batter, offering a healthy and colorful breakfast option.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Idli Dosa Batter (Store-bought is fine)
- 1 cup Beetroot Puree (Use cooked beetroot)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
- 10 Curry Leaves (Optional, for aroma)
- 1 teaspoon Jeera (Cumin Seeds – Can substitute with mustard seeds)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on pre-seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons Ghee or Oil (For cooking)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- Garnish with fresh coriander for added color.
- Enjoy with coconut or tomato chutney for flavor contrast.
- Store leftover Beetroot Appe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual beetroot appe by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat from frozen or chilled in a skillet with a little oil for 4-5 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg