Are you craving a delicious and healthy breakfast or a light yet satisfying dinner? Look no further! This Idli Rava Idli recipe is your answer. This quick and easy South Indian dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings. Made with semolina (rava) and minimal ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for healthy meals and a great way to explore homemade cooking. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for delicious variations to suit your taste. Let's dive into this amazing recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (rava)
- 1/2 cup curd (yogurt)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro (optional)
- 2 green chilies finely chopped (optional)
- Oil or ghee for greasing the idli molds
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the semolina (rava) and curd (yogurt). Mix well and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb the yogurt, resulting in softer idlis.
Prepare the Batter:
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Add water to the semolina and yogurt mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain. The batter should have a slightly thick consistency, similar to pancake batter. If it's too thick, add a little more water. If it's too thin, add a little more semolina.
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Add salt, baking soda, and optional ingredients like chopped onions, cilantro, and green chilies. Mix everything together gently.
Steam the Idlis:
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Grease your idli molds lightly with oil or ghee. Pour the batter into each mold, filling them about three-quarters full.
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Steam the idlis for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy. You'll know they're done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The steaming time might vary slightly depending on your steamer.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, let the idlis cool slightly before carefully removing them from the molds. Serve them hot with your favorite sambar and chutney.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Idlis:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the idlis tough. Gently mix until everything is just combined.
- Resting time is crucial: Allowing the batter to rest helps the semolina absorb the liquid and results in softer idlis.
- Use a good quality steamer: A good steamer ensures even cooking and prevents the idlis from sticking.
- Don't overfill the molds: Overfilling can lead to the idlis overflowing during steaming.
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots, finely chopped capsicum, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili powder or a few curry leaves for a spicier kick.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding other fresh herbs like mint or dill for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per idli, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. However, rava idlis are generally a good source of carbohydrates and provide a moderate amount of protein. They are relatively low in fat, making them a healthy choice for breakfast or dinner. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This simple yet flavorful Idli Rava Idli recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this delightful taste of South India!