Video Recipe: How to make Idli | Steamed Rice and Lentil Cakes

urad dal

🥗Healthier: moong dal

💰Cheaper: split peas

Moong dal is lighter and cheaper while providing a similar texture.

coconut

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: dried coconut flakes

Dried coconut flakes are less expensive and can be rehydrated.

Welcome to the kitchen and introduction to making idlies using idly dosa batter.

Show freshly fermented idly batter, noting it has risen in volume and has air pockets from fermentation.

Caution against stirring the batter too much to maintain air pockets for softness.

Grease idly molds with a little sesame oil (optional for flavor).

Pour spoonfuls of the batter into the molds, filling them only halfway as they will rise when steamed.

Place filled racks one above the other in the steamer, ensuring holes face the filled portion.

Prepare the steamer with a little water in the bottom and turn the heat on high.

Steam the idlies for about 10 minutes until done.

After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and test the idlies with a knife or pick; if nothing sticks, they are cooked.

Remove the idlies from the steamer using a spoon dipped in water to ease removal from the molds.

Serve the idlies in a bowl or platter with vegetable sambar and sprinkle with chopped onions.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens