Rava Idli

Rava idli or steamed semolina cakes is a popular breakfast dish in Tamil Nadu. This aromatic idli is made with roasted semolina mixed with yogurt to a batter. 

Ingredients for 16 idlis (4 servings):

2 Cups coarse rava (semolina)

3 Tablespoons ghee

1 Tablespoon broken cashew nuts

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon channa dal

3-4 curry leaves

2-3 green chili, chopped

1 Tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro

salt to taste

1 1/2 Cups plain yogurt

1 Cup water

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Method:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon ghee in a broad pan. Roast rava until golden brown. Transfer to a large bowl. Allow to cool.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in the same pan. Roast the cashew nuts to golden brown. Lower the heat. Add mustard seeds and channa dal to temper. Add chopped chili and curry leaves. Stir for 30 seconds. Transfer this to the bowl with roasted rava. Add salt and mix .

3. Mix yogurt and water. Stir this to  rava mixture in the bowl to make a thick batter. Add cilantro to the batter. Check for salt and add if required. Allow to rest for 20 minutes.

                                                                 

4. Prepare pressure cooker for steaming idli. Fill the cooker with 2 cups of water. Grease the idli plates with oil.

5. Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda to the batter. Add few tablespoons water if necessary. Pour 1/4 cup of batter in each idli mould. Place the moulds in the idli stand. Place the idli stand in the pressure cooker and steam for 10 minutes. 

                              

Serve hot idli with coconut chutney.

                                                  

Notes:

You can add grated carrot to the batter.