How to Make Soft and Fluffy Vegetable Idli – A Nutritious Twist to a Classic South Indian Favorite

Idli, a staple breakfast dish in South India, is celebrated for its light, fluffy texture and easy digestibility. But when you add a colorful mix of vegetables into the traditional fermented batter, you not only enhance its nutritional value but also make it more appealing to children and adults alike. Vegetable idli is a delicious and wholesome way to sneak in more veggies into your meals while retaining the beloved taste and comfort of classic idlis. Whether you’re preparing breakfast, packing a lunchbox, or serving a light dinner, this version of idli is sure to satisfy both your hunger and health goals.

Here’s how you can make soft and fluffy vegetable idlis at home with just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups idli batter (fermented)
• ½ cup grated carrots
• ½ cup finely chopped beans and capsicum
• ¼ cup green peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Oil or ghee for greasing the idli moulds

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing and chopping the vegetables—carrots, beans, capsicum, and green peas. Lightly steam them for a few minutes until they become slightly tender but not mushy. This helps them blend better with the batter and cook evenly during steaming.

Step 2: Mix with the Batter

Add the steamed vegetables and freshly chopped coriander leaves to the idli batter. Mix everything gently until well combined. Taste the batter and add salt if necessary.

Step 3: Get the Moulds Ready

Grease the idli plates or moulds using a little oil or ghee to prevent sticking. Spoon the vegetable-batter mixture into each mould, filling them about three-fourths full to give the batter space to rise and fluff up while steaming.

Step 4: Steam the Idlis

Place the filled idli moulds into a steamer or idli cooker. Steam for 10 to 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of an idli comes out clean. Avoid over-steaming, as this can make them dry.

Step 5: Serve Fresh and Hot

Once done, allow the idlis to cool slightly before gently removing them from the moulds. Serve them hot with classic accompaniments like coconut chutney, tangy sambar, or a spicy idli podi with ghee.

Soft, fluffy, and bursting with the goodness of vegetables, these idlis are not only a healthy start to your day but also a great way to make mealtime more colorful and satisfying. Give this vibrant twist to your traditional idli routine—you might just find your new favorite version!