Rava Idli, Steam Dumplings
Rava Idli is a popular South Indian dish. The traditional way of making idlis would take two days. This recipe is much quicker and easier, and tastes just as delicious! Rava Idlis can be enjoyed as a snack or as a light meal.
Servings 4 people
Ingredients
For the batter
- 1 cup coarse sooji semolina
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 green chili finely choppes
- 1 tsp ginger finely grated
- 1 tbsp cilantro finely chopped hara dhania
- 1/4 cup cabbage finely chopped
- 1/2 cup yogurt dahi, curd
- 1 cup water, use as needed
- 1 tsp ENO fruit salt
Seasoning
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1/4 tsp mustard seeds rai
- 1/4 tsp cumin seeds jeera
- 2 2 green chilies sliced lengthwise and cut in half.
Utensils for Steaming Idlis
Idli stand - this has three to four plates stacked over each other.
Covered pot, large enough to hold the idli stand.
Alternatively, an egg poacher can work just as well,
Instructions
- Mix sooji, salt, green chili, ginger, cilantro, cabbage, yogurt, and water (as needed) to make a pancake-like batter. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.
- The batter thickens as the semolina absorbs the water. At this point, add a little more water if it is too thick.
- Add approximately ¾ cup of water to the pot. Check to make sure that the water does not touch the bottom plate of the idli stand. Bring to boil
- Lightly grease Idli plates with oil.
- Add Eno Fruit Salt to the batter and mix well. The mixture will begin foaming. Immediately begin pouring into the Idli trays. Place the stand into the steaming pot.
- Cover the pot and steam the idlis ten to twelve minutes on medium heat. Insert a toothpick in the center of one idli. If the toothpick comes out clean, remove the stand from the pot. Do not overcook the idlis, as they will lose their softness and dry out as they cool.
- Cool for just a few minutes before removing each individual idli. They should come out easily and not stick to the mould. The idlis should be spongy and soft.
For The Seasoning
- Heat oil in a saucepan. Add mustard and cumin seeds. When the seeds begin to crack, add the chilies. Stir for a few seconds and remove from the heat.Pour the seasoning over the Idlis on the serving plate.
Notes
Tips
You can replace the cabbage with shredded carrots.
This recipe will make slightly more than 16 idlis. If you choose, you can make it in two batches. The batter can be prepared all at once; however, you must add the Eno just prior to pouring into the idli stand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve seasoned Idlis with coconut or cilantro chutney.
Serve Idlis with samber (south Indian vegetable soup). Idlis do not have to be seasoned for that.
Stir-fry Idlis in the seasoning oil mixture over medium heat for a few minutes. They will turn slightly brown.