Idli With A Twist These Idlis (a Traditional South Indian Savoury

Steamed Idli (Savory Rice Cakes) Instant Pot Piping Pot Curry in

Cover Steamed Idli (Savory Rice Cakes) Instant Pot Piping Pot Curry in (1000x1376)

Table of Contents

1. What are Beyond Curry Idlis?
2. How to Make Beyond Curry Idlis
3. What are the Ingredients Used?
4. What are the Health Benefits?
5. What are Some Variation Ideas?

What are Beyond Curry Idlis?

Beyond Curry Idlis are a delicious and healthy Indian dish made from steamed lentil and rice cakes. They are a popular breakfast or snack option in South India, especially in the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Beyond Curry Idlis are a variation of the traditional idli recipe, which is typically made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

The name "Beyond Curry Idlis" reflects the versatility of this dish. While idlis are traditionally served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney, Beyond Curry Idlis can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings and accompaniments, going beyond the usual curry flavors.

How to Make Beyond Curry Idlis

Making Beyond Curry Idlis involves a few simple steps:

1. Soak equal parts of rice and split black lentils (urad dal) in water for around 4-6 hours. This soaking process helps in softening the ingredients and makes them easier to grind.
2. After soaking, drain the water and grind the rice and lentils separately to a smooth paste. You can add a little water while grinding to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Mix the ground rice and lentil paste together in a large bowl, adding salt to taste. The batter should be thick but pourable.
4. Allow the batter to ferment overnight or for at least 8 hours. Fermentation adds a tangy flavor to the idlis and makes them light and fluffy.
5. Once the batter has fermented, grease idli molds with a little oil and pour the batter into each mold.
6. Steam the idlis in a steamer or idli cooker for around 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and firm.
7. Remove the idlis from the molds and serve hot with your choice of toppings and accompaniments.

What are the Ingredients Used?

The main ingredients used in Beyond Curry Idlis are:

• Rice: Traditionally, parboiled rice or idli rice is used for making idlis. These types of rice have a high starch content, which helps in achieving the soft and fluffy texture of the idlis.
• Split Black Lentils (Urad Dal): Urad dal is rich in protein and adds a nutty flavor to the idlis. It also helps in fermentation and gives the idlis a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Salt is added to enhance the flavor of the idlis.

These are the basic ingredients, but you can also add spices, herbs, and vegetables to customize the flavor of your Beyond Curry Idlis.

What are the Health Benefits?

Beyond Curry Idlis are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits:

• High in Protein: The combination of rice and lentils in Beyond Curry Idlis provides a complete protein source, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
• Low in Fat: Idlis are steamed rather than fried, reducing the amount of fat in the dish. This makes them a healthier alternative to other fried snacks.
• Rich in Fiber: The fermentation process increases the fiber content of the idlis, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
• Gluten-Free: Beyond Curry Idlis are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Good for Weight Management: Idlis are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a filling and nutritious option for weight management.

What are Some Variation Ideas?

Beyond Curry Idlis can be customized with various ingredients and flavors. Here are some variation ideas to try:

1. Vegetable Idlis: Add grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or other vegetables of your choice to the idli batter. This adds color, texture, and extra nutrients to the idlis.

2. Masala Idlis: Temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies in oil. Add this tempering to the idli batter along with some finely chopped onions. This adds a spicy and savory twist to the idlis.

3. Cheese Idlis: Add grated cheese to the idli batter before steaming. This gives the idlis a rich and creamy texture.

4. Rava Idlis: Replace a portion of the rice with semolina (rava) to make rava idlis. These idlis have a slightly coarse texture and are quicker to prepare.

5. Stuffed Idlis: Make a small depression in the center of each idli mold and fill it with a mixture of spiced potato or paneer filling. Steam the idlis as usual, and you will have delicious and filling stuffed idlis.

Conclusion

Beyond Curry Idlis are a versatile and healthy Indian dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. They are easy to make and can be customized with various flavors and ingredients. With their high protein content, low fat content, and gluten-free nature, Beyond Curry Idlis are a great option for those looking for nutritious and delicious meals. So, why not give them a try and explore the endless possibilities of flavors and toppings that go beyond the usual curry?