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Stacked Instant idli on a bowl
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4.59 from 77 votes

Instant Rice Idli

Wake up to a breakfast that everyone dreams of - Instant Rice idli that's so unbelievably good and effortless to make. Beginners will love how simple it is - no fermenting, no soaking, and no grinding at all. Serve it with coconut chutney, and it's a great way to start your day.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Rest: 10 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 50 IDLIS
Calories: 42kcal
Author: Ruchi

Ingredients


Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour, urad dal flour, ground poha, salt, and fenugreek seeds powder.
  • Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  • Add enough water to make a thick batter. For me, it was appx. 3¼ cups of water. So add slowly and gradually. Too much water will result in flat and sticky idlis. Thoroughly beat the batter, so it's free of lumps. Cover and let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
  • After 10 minutes, the batter will thicken. Add an extra 3 tablespoons to ¼ cup of water and give the idli batter another good whisk to ensure there are no lumps in the batter. Add citric acid.
  • Add Eno..
  • Mix it well. The batter will become frothy and bubbly.
  • Heat water in a large pan. Grease the idli molds lightly with oil to prevent sticking while steaming and ease the demolding process later.
    Tip — Steaming idlis to perfection requires attention to detail. Ensure the water in the idli steamer is boiling before you begin the steaming process.
  • Spoon the batter in idli molds.
    Tip — As the batter rises during steaming, make sure to fill the idli molds about three-quarters only, leaving space for them to rise.
  • Place the molds in the steamer and cover it with a lid. Let the idlis cook for 10- 12 minutes and check for doneness. A toothpick coming out clean when inserted in the center confirms the doneness of the idlis. 
  • Steamed idlis are ready.
  • Remove the idlis from the water pan. Allow them to cool completely.
    Tip — Freshly prepared idlis are soft and delicate in texture, making them susceptible to crumbling. So, handle them with care.
  • Once cooked, run a knife around the idlis, and they will pop right out of their molds. Gently remove them from the molds using a spoon or knife, not breaking them apart. 
    Run a knife around idlis
  • Spongy soft idlis are now ready to be devoured! 
  • Repeat the process with the rest of the batter.
  • This recipe makes 50 - 55 idlis.
  • Arrange them on a platter and serve them warm alongside your favorite chutneys or sambar. 

STEAM IDLI IN INSTANT POT

  • Steaming Instant rice idlis in your Instant Pot is so easy; you’ll love it; it is an excellent alternative to cooking stovetop.
    Start by greasing your idli molds. Spoon the batter in idli molds. 
    Turn the Instant Pot ON. Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” Button. Place the idli mold inside the insert.
    Cover the Instant Pot insert with a glass lid. 
    Rice idli in Instant Pot
  • Steam the Instant rice idli for 10 minutes or until the toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove the idlis from the insert. Let the rice idlis cool completely.
    Run a knife around idlis, and they will pop right out of their molds. Soft and fluffy idlis are ready. Serve hot with Sambar and coconut chutney. 
    Rice idli in Instant Pot

Notes

 

Frequently asked questions

 
Why did the idlis become flat?
The most common reason for idlis not rising or going flat during steaming is - the runny batter. So, please use the correct measurements as mentioned in the recipe, as too much water will thin out the batter, and the idlis will turn hard and flat. 
 
Can we add buttermilk instead of water?
 Yes, you can swap water for buttermilk. 
 
Can we store the batter after mixing Eno and Citric Acid?
After adding Eno and citric acid to the batter, you can only store the batter in the refrigerator for a day.
 
Is Citric Acid good for health?
In moderation, citric acid is okay. Citric acid is a common food additive used in recipes to lend a tangy flavor to them. It is perfectly acceptable as we use that in a moderate quantity (a half teaspoon in 3½ cups of rice batter).
It's a must-have for this recipe as the citric acid, and Eno combo results in soft and light idlis.
 
Can I add baking soda?
The answer is a No because baking soda will leave a soapy taste in these idlis.
 
Serving Suggestions
Idlis are best savored when hot. Dunk them in freshly prepared Sambar and accompany them with some coconut chutney, and you are ready to receive your reward in the form of compliments!
 
Storing Suggestions
In the refrigerator, you can store your freshly prepared idlis in an airtight container for three days. When the craving strikes, put them in a bowl and steam them in a steamer for 3-4 minutes.
They will be as good as the freshly prepared ones. Don't microwave the idlis, as it will dry them out.
 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 42kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 6mg | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.4mg