How to Prepare Soft Idli
Idli, a popular South Indian dish, is a staple in many households and restaurants across the country. Made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, these soft, spongy cakes are a delightful breakfast option. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing soft idli at home, ensuring that you achieve the perfect texture and taste.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (black gram)
– 1 cup rice
– 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
– Water (as required)
– Salt (to taste)
– A pinch of turmeric (optional)
Preparation
1. Begin by washing the urad dal and rice separately until the water runs clear. Soak them together in water for at least 6 hours or overnight. This helps in easy grinding of the mixture.
2. After soaking, add the fenugreek seeds to the soaked dal and rice. This is an essential ingredient that adds flavor and helps in the fermentation process.
3. Grind the soaked mixture in a blender or mixie. Add water as needed to achieve a smooth, thick batter. The batter should be of a pouring consistency, but not too runny. It should also be thick enough to hold its shape when poured onto a plate.
4. Transfer the batter to a large bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it ferment for at least 8-10 hours or overnight. The fermentation process is crucial for the perfect texture of the idli.
5. Once the batter has fermented, check for its consistency. It should be thick and slightly frothy. Add salt and turmeric (if using) to the batter and mix well.
6. Grease idli molds with a little oil or ghee. This will help in easy removal of the idli from the molds.
7. Pour the batter into the idli molds, filling them about 3/4th full. Tap the molds gently to release any air bubbles.
8. Place the molds in a steamer and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until the idli is cooked and starts to separate from the molds.
9. Once cooked, carefully remove the idli from the molds and serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any other side dish of your choice.
Now that you know how to prepare soft idli, you can enjoy this delicious breakfast at home whenever you want. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to make your idli experience even more delightful!
