Idli, soft, fluffy, and delightfully light, is a staple in South Indian households and a favourite breakfast across India. While traditional idli involves hours of soaking, fermenting, and steaming, here’s how you can whip up instant, deliciously soft idlis in just 15 minutes with this simple, foolproof recipe. Whether you’re in a morning rush or craving a comforting snack, this is the go-to idli recipe you need.
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Ingredients (serves 3–4)
1 cup semolina (rava/suji)
1 cup curd (yogurt) – thick and fresh
½ tsp baking soda or eno (fruit salt)
½ cup water (adjust as needed)
Salt to taste
Optional: 1 tsp mustard seeds, a few curry leaves, 1 tsp urad dal, 1 chopped green chili (for tempering)
Ghee or oil for greasing the idli moulds
Quick method
Roast the semolina (optional but recommended)
In a pan, dry roast 1 cup rava on low flame for 4–5 minutes until it gives off a mild aroma. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted rava, 1 cup curd, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add water and stir until you get a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be slightly thick but pourable—like pancake batter.
Let it rest
Rest the batter for 5–10 minutes to allow the rava to absorb moisture. This helps the idlis turn soft.
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Add baking soda
Just before steaming, stir in ½ tsp baking soda or eno. Mix gently in one direction; you’ll notice the batter become airy and rise slightly. Don’t overmix.
Grease & pour
Grease the idli moulds with oil or ghee. Pour the batter into each cavity without overfilling.
Steam the idlis
Steam in an idli steamer or a large pot with a stand and lid for 10–12 minutes. Do not open the lid midway. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
Pro tips for fluffy Idlis every time
Use fresh curd, as it gives the batter a light tang and activates the rising agent better.
Don’t skip the rest time because it helps the semolina soak up moisture and swell.
Add the raising agent only at the end and steam immediately after mixing.
Use a clean cloth or towel to absorb steam droplets under the lid to avoid soggy tops.
