Making Soft & Fluffy Idli (rice Cakes) in an Idli Steamer

Idli is typically an Indian steamed rice cake that is soft, fluffy, and healthy. It is made using fermented rice and black gram batter. personally i eat this as breakfast and mainly in summer due to its cooling nature.

Ingredients

1. 2 cups idli rice (parboiled rice)
2. 1 cup black gram, without husk
3. Salt (to taste)
4. Water (as required)

Tools & Equipment

1. Idli steamer
2. Idli mold/plates
3. Mixing bowls
4. Blender
5. Spoon

Rinse the idli rice and black gram separately under running water.

Soak the rice and black gram in enough water for 6-8 hours.

Drain the water from the black gram and grind it in a blender with some amount of water (about ½ cup). Grind until the batter is light, and smooth.

Now, drain and grind the idli rice with some water until it has a coarse, grainy texture.

After that mix both the batters together in a large bowl, add a pinch of salt and stir well to combine.

Cover the bowl and let the batter ferment for at least 12 hours in a warm place.

After fermentation, the size of the batter should be increased and appear airy and slightly frothy.(now why it happens is because of the presence of lactic acid bacteria which are naturally present in the black gram, when left to ferment these bacteria produces carbon dioxide creating air pockets in the batter and there by causing it to rise in size.)

Stir the batter gently before use.(cause you might not want to deflate the air pockets by over mixing)

Pour some water the idli steamer and start heating, while that happens pour the batter into the molds.

Finally place the filled idli plates inside the steamer.( these perforated plates allow steam to circulate evenly through the batter)

Cover the steamer and steam for 10-12 minutes on medium heat.

To check if the idlis are done, insert a toothpick or knife—if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Now remove the plates from the steamer and let them cool slightly.

Gently scoop out the idlis using a spoon or knife.

Traditionally it's Served with sambar( a lentil based vegetable stew)or coconut sauce, but you can eat it with your preferable type of curry too.

Enjoy your soft, fluffy homemade idlis!

some tips

For better fermentation Keep the batter in a warm place, especially in cold weather.

The batter can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Making idlis at home is really easy using simple tool and basic cooking knowledge. it's fermented and steamed ,both of these process makes it a healthy and nutritious food choice.

So next time when you want to eat something new and delicious yet healthy consider this recipe.

Happy Cooking! 🍽️