Vegan Classic South Indian Idlis
Discover the art of making perfectly fluffy and soft *Vegan Classic South Indian Idlis*! This traditional recipe celebrates the delicate flavors of fermented rice and urad dal, combined with the subtle nuttiness of fenugreek seeds. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, these steamed rice-lentil cakes are not only wholesome but also incredibly light and easy to digest. The secret lies in the fermentation process, which creates a wonderfully airy batter and imparts a subtle tangy flavor. In just two simple steps—soaking and steaming—you’ll create a dish that pairs beautifully with sambar, tangy coconut chutney, or a drizzle of sesame oil. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, these idlis are a classic South Indian comfort food you’ll want to make again and again!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Idli rice
- 1 cup Urad dal (split skinned black gram)
- 0.5 teaspoon Fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2.5 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Vegetable oil
Instructions
Rinse the idli rice and urad dal separately under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the idli rice in a large bowl with enough water to cover at least 2 inches above the rice. Similarly, soak the urad dal and fenugreek seeds in another bowl with enough water to cover them for at least 6 to 8 hours or overnight.
After soaking, drain the urad dal and fenugreek seeds completely and blend them together in a food processor or wet grinder with half a cup of water. Grind until you attain a smooth and fluffy batter. Transfer the batter into a large mixing bowl.
Drain the soaked rice and blend it with about half a cup of water until you have a slightly grainy texture. Some grittiness helps the texture of the idlis. Combine this rice batter with the urad dal batter.
Add salt to the batter and mix everything with your hand. This helps in the fermentation process. Cover the bowl and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 8 to 12 hours or until it doubles in volume and appears bubbly.
Once the batter is fermented, gently mix it. If needed, you can add a little water to achieve a thick yet pourable consistency.
Prepare the idli steamer or a large pot with enough water at the bottom. Bring the water to a boil. Lightly grease the idli plates with a teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Pour the batter into each mould of the idli trays about three-quarters full. Stack the plates into the steamer or pot.
Steam the idlis for about 10 to 15 minutes or until a knife or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once cooked, remove the trays and let them cool for a minute. Carefully remove the idlis using a wet spoon.
Serve the vegan idlis hot with sambar or coconut chutney.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1245 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 8.9 g | 11% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.7 g | 8% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2459 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 231.1 g | 84% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.5 g | 141% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.4 g | ||
| Protein | 61.6 g | 123% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 355 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 16.6 mg | 92% | |
| Potassium | 2120 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
