Introduction: Step into the world of South Indian cuisine with a nutritious twist with our Multi-Millet Idli recipe! Idli, a staple breakfast dish in South India, undergoes a healthy makeover in this recipe by incorporating a blend of millets, ancient grains rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Join us as we explore the simplicity and nourishment of Multi-Millet Idli and discover a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast or any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed millets (such as foxtail millet, little millet, barnyard millet)
• 1/2 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• 1/4 cup poha (flattened rice)
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil or ghee, for greasing the idli molds

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mixed millets, urad dal, and poha separately under running water and drain well.
2. Soak the rinsed mixed millets, urad dal, and poha in separate bowls with enough water. Let them soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
3. After soaking, drain the water from the mixed millets, urad dal, and poha.
4. In a blender or wet grinder, combine the soaked urad dal and poha along with water as needed to grind into a smooth batter. The batter should be fluffy and airy.
5. Transfer the urad dal and poha batter to a large mixing bowl.
6. In the same blender or wet grinder, combine the soaked mixed millets along with water as needed to grind into a smooth batter. The batter should have a slightly coarse texture.
7. Transfer the mixed millet batter to the same mixing bowl as the urad dal and poha batter.
8. Mix both batters together gently to combine.
9. Add salt to taste and mix well.
10. Cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours or overnight. Fermentation helps in enhancing the flavor and texture of the idlis.
11. After fermentation, gently stir the batter to combine.
12. Grease the idli molds with oil or ghee.
13. Pour the batter into the idli molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
14. Steam the idlis in a steamer or pressure cooker without the whistle for about 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through. Insert a toothpick into the center of an idli to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the idlis are ready.
15. Once cooked, remove the idli molds from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes.
16. Carefully remove the idlis from the molds using a spoon or knife.
17. Serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any chutney of your choice.

Variations:

• You can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or beans to the batter before steaming for added nutrition and flavor.
• For a spicy twist, you can add finely chopped green chilies or grated ginger to the batter.
• Experiment with different combinations of millets to create unique flavors and textures in your idlis.

Nutritional Information: Multi-Millet Idlis are a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Millets are gluten-free and rich in antioxidants, making them suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or those looking to maintain a healthy diet. These idlis are light yet filling, providing sustained energy to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Conclusion: Multi-Millet Idlis are a delicious and wholesome breakfast option that’s perfect for starting your day on a nutritious note. With their fluffy texture, subtle nutty flavor, and nutritious ingredients, these idlis are sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether enjoyed with traditional accompaniments like coconut chutney and sambar or with your favorite toppings, Multi-Millet Idlis are a delightful way to incorporate the goodness of millets into your diet. Give this recipe a try and experience the wholesome goodness of Multi-Millet Idlis!