Classic Karnataka — girmit made with spiced puffed rice.

Ingredients

Method

  1. About this idli: Idli is one of the world's healthiest breakfasts — steamed, fermented, fat-free. This version is Girmit. Famous in North Karnataka (Dharwad, Hubli). Girmit — Dharwad's beloved spiced puffed rice street snack
  2. Prepare batter: Combine puffed rice with chopped onion, tomato, green chilli, roasted peanuts and tamarind chutney.
  3. Ferment: Mix batter with 1.5 teaspoons salt. Leave overnight (8 to 12 hours) in a warm place. Should rise, bubble slightly and smell mildly sour.
  4. Test batter: Drop a spoonful into water — it should float. If it sinks, ferment 2 to 3 more hours.
  5. Prepare moulds: Grease each idli mould cavity lightly with oil.
  6. Fill moulds: Pour batter 3/4 full into each cavity.
  7. Set up steamer: Bring water in steamer pot to a boil. Water level below the first rack.
  8. Steam: Place idli stand in steamer. Cover tightly and steam on medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes. Do not lift lid during steaming.
  9. Test doneness: A wet toothpick inserted should come out clean.
  10. Rest and release: Turn off heat. Wait 2 minutes before opening. Use a wet spoon to scoop idli.
  11. Serve: Serve hot with sambar and coconut chutney.