Idli Recipe – South Indian Classic Fermented Idli Batter Video Recipe

Ingredients
Urad Dal - 1/2 cup
Idli Rice - 1 1/2 cups
Methi Seeds - 1/2 tsp
Salt - to taste
Oil / Ghee - for greasing
Onam is around the corner, and this classic Idli recipe is the perfect side dish for your harvest festival feast. To begin the preparation, soak the Urad Dal, Idli Rice, and Methi Seeds separately and grind them into a smooth batter with the right consistency. The key lies in achieving the desired texture to ensure optimal results. Allow the batter to ferment overnight, permitting it to develop the characteristic tanginess that distinguishes traditional Idlis.
Whether for Onam or any other occasion, these delightful Idlis will undoubtedly captivate with their genuine flavors and time-honored preparation method. For a visual guide, check out our idli recipe video, as we honor the art of creating these culinary treasures within the comfort of your own kitchen.
Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Idli batter. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our Idli calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below. We also have an option to view our idli recipe in hindi.
Instructions
Idli Recipe Preparation:
1) Start by washing and soaking 1/2 cup urad dal and 1 1/2 cups idli rice. Be sure to wash and soak the dal and rice in separate bowls.
2) In the idli rice bowl, add 1/2 tsp of methi seeds for soaking as well.
3) Soak the dal & rice for 3-4 hours.
Fermenting Idli Batter Instructions:
1) In a blender, add the soaked Urad dal along with a few tablespoons of the soaking water. Grind into a smooth paste - about 2-3 minutes.
2) Pour the Urad dal paste into a large bowl.
3) Next, add the soaked rice into the blender along with a few tablespoons of the soaking water.
4) Grind until it is mostly smooth with some coarse grains of rice remaining.
5) Remove from the blender and pour into the same bowl as the dal paste.
6) Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap and place in a warm area for at least 8 hours (or overnight) to ferment.
7) After fermenting, you will be able to see that the mixture has risen slightly and formed air bubbles. The batter is now ready to use.
How To Steam & Cook Idli:
1) Once you are ready to cook the Idli, add salt according to taste. Do not add salt until just before cooking, or it will stop the fermentation process.
2) Prepare the idli steamer by adding water to the pot and setting it on medium heat.
3) Next, grease the idli mold with oil or ghee.
4) Add about 1 tablespoon of idli batter to each mold.
5) Place the mold tray into the steaming pot and steam for about 5 minutes (or until a toothpick comes out clean).
6) To remove the cooked idli from the pan, use the toothpick to help lift it out of the mold.
7) Plate the idli and serve warm with sambar or chutney.
8) Happy Onam!
Onam is around the corner, and this classic Idli recipe is the perfect side dish for your harvest festival feast. To begin the preparation, soak the Urad Dal, Idli Rice, and Methi Seeds separately and grind them into a smooth batter with the right consistency. The key lies in achieving the desired texture to ensure optimal results. Allow the batter to ferment overnight, permitting it to develop the characteristic tanginess that distinguishes traditional Idlis.
Whether for Onam or any other occasion, these delightful Idlis will undoubtedly captivate with their genuine flavors and time-honored preparation method. For a visual guide, check out our idli recipe video, as we honor the art of creating these culinary treasures within the comfort of your own kitchen.
Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Idli batter. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our Idli calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below. We also have an option to view our idli recipe in hindi.
Leave a review
We value your feedback. Let us know how did you like the recipe.
Recent Recipes

Instant Bun Dosa & Coconut Chutney – Quick & Easy Vegetarian Breakfast Recipe
Learn how to make soft and fluffy bun dosas. A cozy, flavorful twist on a classic South Indian breakfast. This recipe also includes a vibrant coconut chutney made with tomato, onion, and red chilies, finished with a flavorful tempering. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this dish brings together comforting textures and bold South Indian flavors in every bite.
Golden, soft, and slightly crisp on the edges, bun dosa is a delightful twist on the classic South Indian dosa. Made with semolina (sooji) and yogurt, this version doesn’t require overnight fermentation—just a quick soak and tempering of spices to build bold, savory flavor. It's perfect for busy mornings or as a comforting light meal when you're craving something warm and filling.
Paired with a creamy coconut chutney blended with onion, tomato, ginger, and dried red chilies, this dish is all about balance—spice, texture, and aroma. A final drizzle of sizzling tempering with mustard seeds, chana dal, and curry leaves takes the chutney to the next level. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner, this bun dosa and chutney combo is sure to satisfy.
Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make instant Bun Dosa. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our bun dosa calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below.

Indian Style Shakshuka - Rich Tomato Curry with Sunny Side Up Eggs - Easy Breakfast Recipe
Love shakshuka? Try this Indian Style Shakshouka that swaps traditional flavors for a warming mix of Indian spices and tomato curry, finished with sunny side up eggs and a drizzle of hot honey. The ultimate quick and easy breakfast recipe. Inspired by North African & Mediterranean shakshouka, this Indian fusion version is vegetarian-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Learn how to make shakshuka!
If you’re looking for an easy breakfast for brunch recipe, this Indian Style Shakshuka will definitely impress. Combining the soul of a classic shakshouka with the heart of Indian home cooking, it features eggs nestled in a rich, buttery makhani-style tomato curry. Topped with a drizzle of hot honey and served with crusty bread or warm naan, it's ideal for a festive breakfast or brunch recipe. This dish brings the boldness of Indian spices to the soft, savory goodness of eggs, making it a must-have for anyone who loves Indian fusion meals.
A perfect Easter recipe idea that's bursting with flavor from spiced tomato sauce, caramelized onions, and perfectly cooked sunny side up eggs. It’s a delightful Indian fusion take on the classic North African and Mediterranean shakshuka. This vegetarian breakfast recipe is quick and easy to make in under an hour!
Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Shakshuka. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our shakshuka calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below.

Meen Manga Curry – Tangy Raw Mango & Creamy Coconut Fish Curry
Discover the perfect balance of tangy and creamy flavors with this Fish Mango Alleppey Curry recipe! Made with fresh tilapia, raw mango, and rich coconut milk, this South Indian delicacy is infused with aromatic spices, curry leaves, and a hint of heat from green chilies. Cooked to perfection in a clay pot for an authentic taste, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Serve it with steamed rice for a comforting and flavorful meal. Try this easy and delicious recipe today!
Fish Mango Curry is a flavorful South Indian dish that combines the tanginess of raw mango with the richness of coconut milk, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This coastal favorite, especially popular in Kerala, features tilapia simmered in a fragrant gravy infused with garlic, ginger, shallots, curry leaves, and green chilies. The dish gets its vibrant color from Kashmiri chili powder and coriander powder, while raw mango slices add a refreshing tartness that complements the creamy coconut milk.
Cooking Alleppey or Meen Manga curry in a clay pot enhances the depth of flavor, making the curry even more aromatic. As the fish gently cooks, it absorbs the spices, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish best enjoyed with steamed rice or appam. A final drizzle of coconut oil and fresh curry leaves adds an irresistible finishing touch, making this an ideal recipe for seafood lovers craving bold, tropical flavors.
Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Fish Mango Curry. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our Fish Mango calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below.