Vegetable Idli.

          Idli batter is prepared with idli rawa and urad dal. Choice of raw vegetables are finely chopped. Idli batter and the chopped vegetables are layered in the idli moulds and the idlis are steamed till soft and fluffy. Serve vegetable idli with any spicy chutney of your choice.Makes: around 4 – 8 Vegetable Idli

Ingredients:

Urad Dal 1/2 Cup
Idli Rawa 1 Cup

Carrots 4 Tbsps
Bell Pepper 4 Tbsps
Cilantro few Sprigs
Green Chiles 1
Ginger 1 inch Piece
Salt to taste
Ghee a Dollop

Method of preparation:

Wash and peel carrots.
Wash the bell pepper and cilantro.
Remove stems, wash and finely chop the green chiles.
Finely chop the carrots, bell pepper and cilantro.
Peel and mince the ginger.
Lightly crush the ginger and green chiles with a pinch of salt.
Mix all these ingredients in a small bowl.

Soak urad dal in water for 3 – 4 hours.
Soak idli rawa in water for around half an hour.
Grind the urad dal into smooth paste and remove onto a mixing bowl.
Squeeze out most of the water from the idli rawa and add the idli rawa to the urad dal paste.
Mix thoroughly and add few tbsps of water if the mixture is too thick.
Leave the batter aside and let the batter ferment for atleast 2 – 3 hours.

Grease the idly moulds with little ghee.
Place around a tbsp of the mixed vegetables in the idli mould.
Layer few tbsps of the idli batter on the vegetables.
Finally layer few tsps of the mixed vegetables on the idli batter.
Repeat the same with remaining moulds.
Steam the idly for 8 – 10 minutes and remove from heat.
Let the idlis stand outside for couple of minutes before removing the idlis from idli moulds.
Apply a drop of ghee to each idli to avoid them drying out before serving.
Serve vegetable idli with any spicy chutney of your choice.
Notes: Refrigerate the remaining batter for next time.

Suggestions: If the idli is still wet inside, steam them for couple more minutes to cook through.
Variations: You can also add your choice of vegetables like peas, potato, beans etc..
Other Names: Vegetable Idli