Green Idli - Healthy Cravings!

Green Idli is a staple dish in the Southern parts of India and is a favorite in Karnataka. It is not only tasty but also low in idli calories. It is a go-to breakfast for people who are always on the go! Besides being packed with nutrients, idli is a favorite because it can be made quickly with minimal effort. This dish has been gaining popularity among health-conscious people as well because it is low in idli calories and provides power-packed nutrition. The best part about this recipe is that it can be enjoyed as it is, or it can be paired with Sambhar, an assortment of chutneys and masalas too. The idli calories aren’t too high, which makes it a great option for diet food. It has various health benefits. What makes green idli special is the fact that spinach is incorporated in the batter, which increases its nutrition quotient. To be honest, this recipe can easily leave the taste buds salivating! Since this recipe is made with semolina, soaking is not required. Idlis made with semolina are low in idli calories and high in fiber content. People who look for low idli calorie alternatives for heavy meals and snacks, green idli can be a great option. Dieticians and nutritionists recommend this low-calorie delicacy for people wishing to lose weight.

Green Idli Info:

Prep Time

10 Mins

Cook Time

8-10 Mins

Total Time

20 Mins

Cuisine

Indian

Category

Main course or Snack

Green Idli Ingredients:

For Green Idli:

  • Idli Batter
  • Oil- For greasing
  • Water- To adjust the consistency
  • Roasted cashews- Optional (For garnishing)
  • Grated carrots- Optional (For garnishing)

For Tempering:

  • Oil- 2 tsp
  • Mustard seeds- 1 tsp
  • Cumin- 1 tsp
  • Bengal gram/urad dal- 2 tsp
  • Chopped green chilies- 2-3
  • Finely chopped ginger- 2-3
  • Curry leaves- 2 sprigs

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Prepare initially by pouring your idli batter in a large vessel.
  • Now take a pan and heat some oil. After the oil heats up, add mustard seeds, followed by cumin seeds, curry leaves, and chopped ginger. Sauté them well till everything gets cooked properly, and an aroma is released.
  • Take a clean bowl. Add yogurt, spinach puree, and salt. Add water to adjust the consistency if the mixture is too thick.
  • To the yogurt mix, add the prepared batter and mix well till everything combines properly and the batter is smooth. Keep this bowl aside and let the mixture rest for 15 minutes. Make sure that the consistency of this batter is like rice idli or pancake batter.
  • After the batter has been rested well, add baking soda to it and incorporate it properly.
  • Grease the idli pan well with some oil.
  • Add grated cashew nuts and carrots at the bottom (Optional).
  • Now, pour a ladle full of the batter in the greased tray and use a steamer to steam cook for about 8-10 minutes.
  • After a while, insert a toothpick in the idlis to ensure that they are cooked properly. The inserted toothpick should come out clean.

Now your idlis are ready. Serve these delicious idlis hot along with chutney or any other gravy of your choice.