spinach idli

Spinach idli is a nutritious and flavorful variation of traditional idli, where finely chopped spinach leaves are added to the idli batter. Here's a simple recipe to make spinach idli:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup idli rice or regular rice

- 1/2 cup urad dal (black gram dal)

- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi seeds)

- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, finely chopped

- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)

- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (optional)

- A few curry leaves, chopped (optional)

- Handful of chopped coriander leaves (optional)

- Salt to taste

- Water, as needed

- Oil or ghee for greasing the idli molds

Instructions:

1. Wash and rinse the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds separately. Soak them in water for about 4-6 hours or overnight.

2. After soaking, drain the water from the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds. Grind them into a smooth paste using a wet grinder or blender. Add water gradually as needed to get a smooth consistency. The batter should be thick yet pourable.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground rice and urad dal batter with the finely chopped spinach leaves, green chili, grated ginger, chopped curry leaves, chopped coriander leaves, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

4. Let the batter ferment for about 8-10 hours or overnight. Fermentation helps in making the idlis soft and fluffy.

5. After fermentation, give the batter a gentle stir. If the batter is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.

6. Grease the idli molds with oil or ghee to prevent the idlis from sticking. Pour the spinach idli batter into each mold of the idli stand, filling them almost to the top.

7. Steam the spinach idlis in a steamer for about 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of an idli; if it comes out clean, the idlis are ready.

8. Once cooked, remove the spinach idlis from the steamer and let them cool for a minute or two.

9. Gently remove the idlis from the molds using a spoon or fork and transfer them to a serving plate.

10. Serve the spinach idlis hot with your choice of chutney, sambar, or a side of your preference.

Spinach idlis are nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack. Enjoy your homemade spinach idlis!