Prepare Mouthwatering Millet Idlis With This 5-Step Recipe

Millet Idli is a wholesome and nutritious variation of the traditional South Indian idli, made using millet instead of rice. This steamed, fluffy cake is prepared from a fermented batter of millet grains, urad dal, and chana dal, offering a higher nutritional profile with added fiber, protein, and essential minerals. The millet imparts a slightly nutty flavor and a unique texture, making it a healthier choice. Often served with coconut chutney and sambar, Millet Idli is a perfect option for a wholesome breakfast or snack, combining traditional idli preparation with the benefits of millet.

Here's a nutritious and tasty recipe for Millet Idli, a healthier alternative to traditional rice idlis:

1. Ingredients

For the Batter:

- 1 cup millet (e.g., pearl millet, finger millet, or barnyard millet)

- 1/4 cup split urad dal (black gram dal)

- 1/4 cup chana dal (Bengal gram dal)

- 1/2 cup yogurt (optional, for fermentation)

- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi seeds)

- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- Water as needed

For Tempering:

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger

- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped

- 10-12 curry leaves

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Ingredients:

- Wash the millet, urad dal, and chana dal thoroughly. Soak them in water for about 6-8 hours or overnight.

- Drain the soaked grains and lentils.

Step 2- Make the Batter:

- In a blender or wet grinder, combine the soaked millet, urad dal, chana dal, and fenugreek seeds. Add water as needed to achieve a smooth batter consistency. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

- If using yogurt, add it to the batter and mix well. This helps in fermentation.

- Cover the batter and let it ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours, or until it has doubled in volume and has a slightly sour smell.

Step 3- Prepare the Tempering:

- Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

- Add cumin seeds, chopped ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves. Saut for a minute until fragrant.

Step 4- Prepare the Idlis:

- Gently fold the tempering into the fermented batter.

- Grease the idli molds with a little oil.

- Pour the batter into the idli molds.

- Steam in an idli steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the idlis comes out clean.

Step 5- Serve:

- Let the idlis cool for a few minutes before removing them from the molds.

- Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious **Millet Idlis**!