Idli South Indian Dish Recipe. Idli is a popular South Indian breakfast dish that is made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal (black gram). The batter is steamed to make fluffy, white idlis that are soft and spongy in texture. Idlis are usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Idli South Indian Dish Recipe
Are you a fan of South Indian Food and looking for a healthy breakfast option? Idli is the perfect dish for you! This delicious and nutritious dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine and is loved by people all over the world. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make idli at home.
Ingredients required to make idli
To make idli at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of idli rice (parboiled rice)
- 1 cup of urad dal (black gram)
- Water, as required
- Salt, to taste
Equipment required to make idli
- A large mixing bowl
- A blender or wet grinder
- A steamer or idli maker
- Idli plates
Step-by-step guide to making idli
1. Soak the rice and dal
Wash the rice and urad dal separately in water until the water runs clear. Soak them in separate bowls with enough water to cover them completely. Soak the rice for 4-5 hours and the urad dal for 3-4 hours.
2. Grind the rice and dal
Drain the water from the rice and urad dal and grind them separately in a blender or wet grinder. Add water as required to make a smooth batter. The rice batter should be slightly coarse, and the dal batter should be fluffy and smooth.
3. Ferment the batter
Mix the rice and dal batters in a large mixing bowl. Add salt to taste and mix well. Cover the bowl and leave it to ferment for 8-10 hours or overnight. The batter will rise and double in volume.
4. Steam the idlis
Grease the idli plates with oil or ghee. Pour the batter into the idli plates and place them in a steamer or idli maker. Steam the idlis for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check if the idlis are cooked by inserting a toothpick or a knife into the center of the idli. If it comes out clean, the idlis are done.
Tips for making perfect idlis
- Use parboiled rice for the best results.
- Use a wet grinder to grind the rice and dal to get a smooth batter.
- The consistency of the batter should be thick but pourable.
- Ferment the batter in a warm and dry place for best results.
- Grease the idli plates with oil or ghee before pouring the batter to prevent sticking.
- Don’t over-steam the idlis as they may become hard and rubbery.
Health benefits of idli
Idlis are a healthy breakfast option as they are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol. They are also rich in protein, dietary fiber, and other essential nutrients. The fermentation process increases the bioavailability of nutrients, making them easier to digest and absorb.
Conclusion
Idli is a delicious and nutritious South Indian breakfast dish that can be easily made at home. By following these simple steps, you can make fluffy, soft idlis that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. So why not give it a try?
FAQs
- Can I use brown rice to make idlis?
Yes, you can use brown rice to make idlis, but the texture and taste may be slightly different.
- Can I use a rice cooker to steam the idlis?
No, a rice cooker is not suitable for steaming idlis. You need a steamer or an idli maker to make idlis.
- How long does it take to ferment the batter?
The fermentation time depends on the temperature and humidity of your kitchen. It usually takes 8-10 hours or overnight for the batter to ferment.
- Can I freeze the idlis?
Yes, you can freeze the idlis for later use. Just steam them for a few minutes before serving.
- Can I make idlis without urad dal?
No, urad dal is an essential ingredient in idli batter. You cannot make idlis without it.