Instant Veg Sooji Idli
Instant Veg Sooji Idli offers a quick and nutritious alternative to the traditional fermented idli, making it a perfect solution for those times when you crave something homemade and comforting but are short on time. Made from semolina (sooji or rava), these idlis are light, fluffy, and can be prepared in a fraction of the time it takes to make the traditional version. This dish is a testament to the versatility of sooji, showcasing how it can be transformed into a delicious breakfast or snack option. The addition of curd and a leavening agent helps in achieving the desired softness and sponginess without the need for fermentation, making this dish an instant hit among all age groups.
The beauty of Instant Veg Sooji Idli lies not only in its quick preparation time but also in its adaptability. Various vegetables, spices, and seasonings can be added to the batter, allowing for endless variations that can suit any palate. This dish is particularly popular in South Indian cuisine but has gained fans across the globe due to its ease of preparation, health benefits, and delicious taste. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a larger meal, Instant Veg Sooji Idli is sure to impress with its light texture and delightful flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Semolina (sooji/rava)
- 1 cup Curd (plain yogurt)
- 1/2 cup Water (adjust as needed to achieve batter consistency)
- 1 teaspoon Eno (fruit salt) or 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup Finely chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas, and coriander)
- 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon Urad dal (split black gram)
- 1 teaspoon Chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 2 Green chilies, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Grated ginger
- A few curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons Oil for tempering
- Freshly grated coconut and coriander leaves, for garnishing
- Cashew for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina (sooji) and curd. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to regular idli batter; not too thick nor too runny. Let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes.
- While the batter is resting, prepare a tempering by heating oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, green chilies, grated ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté until the mustard seeds start to crackle and the dals turn golden brown. Pour this tempering over the batter and mix well.
- Add the chopped vegetables and salt to the batter. Mix thoroughly.
- Just before you are ready to steam the idlis, add Eno (fruit salt) or baking soda to the batter. Mix gently but quickly. The batter will become frothy.
- Immediately pour the batter into greased idli moulds.
- Steam the idlis in an idli steamer or a pressure cooker (without the weight) for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of an idli comes out clean.
- Allow the idlis to cool for a couple of minutes before removing them from the moulds.
Servings
- Servings: This recipe makes about 12-15 idlis.
Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including resting time)
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
Important Points
- Do not overmix the batter after adding Eno or baking soda, as it can deflate, resulting in denser idlis.
- Ensure the water for steaming is boiling before placing the idli moulds inside, to ensure even and efficient cooking.
- The batter consistency is crucial; it should be neither too thick nor too runny for the perfect texture.
How to Serve Instant Veg Sooji Idli
Serve the Instant Veg Sooji Idli warm with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar. Garnish with freshly grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
In Conclusion
Instant Veg Sooji Idli is a delightful and convenient dish that proves you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy homemade, nutritious meals. Its ease of preparation, coupled with the flexibility to add various vegetables and seasonings, makes it a favorite among those looking for quick and healthy meal options. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who loves to experiment with different cuisines, Instant Veg Sooji Idli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe
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