Preparation of Veggie Idli: Begin by soaking the rice and urad dal together in water for at least 6-8 hours. This step helps in softening the ingredients, making them easy to grind later. Once soaked, drain the water and set the rice and dal aside. The soaking process is crucial to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture when the idlis are steamed. (Time taken: 6-8 hours for soaking)
Grinding the Batter: Now, using a wet grinder or blender, grind the soaked rice and dal into a smooth batter. You can add a little water as needed to help with the grinding process. The batter should be thick but pourable, with a smooth consistency. Once ground, transfer the batter into a large container and cover it. Allow the batter to ferment for 8-12 hours, depending on the temperature of your surroundings. Fermentation is key to making light, spongy idlis. (Time taken: 8-12 hours for fermentation)
Adding the Vegetables: After the batter has fermented and risen, it’s time to prepare the vegetables. Finely chop your chosen vegetables such as carrots, beans, peas, or spinach. Add them directly to the batter and gently mix them in. The vegetables not only add a burst of color to your idlis but also enhance their taste and nutritional value. Be sure to fold them in gently, so the texture of the batter isn’t disturbed. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Steaming the Idlis: Grease your idli molds with a little oil or ghee to prevent the batter from sticking. Carefully spoon the veggie-infused batter into the molds, filling each mold about halfway. Prepare a steamer or a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle boil. Once the water is steaming, place the idli stand inside the steamer. Cover the lid and steam the idlis for around 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into an idli comes out clean. (Time taken: 15 minutes)
Serving the Veggie Idlis: Once the idlis are cooked, carefully remove them from the molds using a spoon. Serve them hot, accompanied by your choice of chutney or sambar for the perfect South Indian meal. The idlis should have a soft, fluffy texture with bits of crunchy vegetables inside, giving each bite a delicious surprise. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Enjoy your Veggie Idli! The final product should be aromatic, light, and comforting, with the goodness of vegetables in every bite. This dish is perfect for any time of the day, whether for a nutritious breakfast or a wholesome snack. With its balanced flavors and healthy ingredients, your veggie idlis are sure to delight everyone at the table. (Time taken: 2 minutes)