Instant Rava Idlis

Instant Rava Idlis

Ingredients (in order of appearance)

Extra virgin olive oil - 1/2 tsp
Ghee - 1/2 tsp
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Green chilis - 2, thin sliced
Cashews - 12 raw, broken
Chana dal - 3/4 tsp - soaked in warm water for 1 minute & drained
Curry leaves - 1/2 sprig, chopped
Rava - 2 cups
Salt - to taste (1 1/2 to 2 tsp)
Baking soda - 1 and 1/8 tsp
Ginger - 3/4 tsp, fine 3mm cubes
Coriander leaves - 1 tsp, finely chopped
Yogurt, low fat - 3 1/4 cups

The Madness

1. Heat the EVOO & ghee over medium high heat. Add and let mustard seeds start popping. Oil must not smoke.

2. Add green chilis, cashews, chana dal. Roast tossing until cashews are ready. Lower heat to medium.

3. Add curry leaves, toss briefly. Add rava and salt. Stir thoroughly for a minute or two. Turn off heat.

4. Add baking soda, stir thoroughly for a minute.

5. Add ginger and coriander leaves. Mix well.

6. When idli pan (I use non-stick) is ready (lighlty oiled), add the yogurt. Mix well for 30 seconds. Speed is critical for soft idlis.

7. Load the idli pan and steam for 18 minutes.

8. Let the idli pan rest outside for 2 minutes.

9. Remove idlis and enjoy.