Mini Idli

Method

1. 1

   Prepare regular dosa batter: Use well-fermented idli or dosa batter.

2. 2

   Prepare sambar: Make a thin, flavourful sambar — this is the base liquid the mini idlis sit in.

3. 3

   Prepare steamer: Fill steamer with water and bring to a boil.

4. 4

   Grease mini idli moulds: Use a mini idli stand (with tiny round moulds). Grease each cavity with a tiny drop of oil.

5. 5

   Fill mini idli moulds: Pour the batter into each tiny cavity — they are very small so use a small spoon. Fill only three-quarters full.

6. 6

   Steam: Place in steamer. Cover tightly and steam for 7-8 minutes.

7. 7

   Check doneness: Mini idlis cook faster than regular — insert a toothpick, it should come out clean.

8. 8

   Unmould into sambar: Carefully pop mini idlis into a bowl of hot sambar. The idlis soak up the sambar beautifully.

9. 9

   Add coconut chutney: Drizzle a spoonful of coconut chutney over the sambar-soaked mini idlis.

10. 10

    Serve: Serve in a deep bowl with extra sambar on the side. Mini idli sambar is a popular restaurant-style dish.