How to make Oats Idli at home?

About Oats Idli

Oats Idli is a nutritious and wholesome variation of the traditional South Indian dish, idli. Idli is a popular steamed rice and lentil cake that is a staple breakfast in many Indian households. Oats Idli takes the goodness of oats and combines it with the traditional idli batter to create a healthier version that is not only easy to prepare but also rich in fiber and nutrients. It’s a great option for those looking to include oats in their diet while enjoying the flavors and textures of a classic Indian breakfast item. Oats Idli is typically served with coconut chutney, sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), or a variety of Indian condiments.

To make Oats Idli at home, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup semolina (rava)
• 1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
• 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
• 1/4 cup chopped cashews (optional)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt to taste
• Oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Dry roast the rolled oats in a pan over medium heat until they turn slightly golden. Allow them to cool and then grind them to a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground oats, semolina, yogurt, and water. Mix well to form a thick batter. Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb the moisture.
3. In a separate pan, heat some oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Once the seeds start to splutter and the dals turn golden, add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, and cashews (if using). Sauté for a minute.
4. Add this tempering to the batter and mix well. Add grated carrots, chopped cilantro, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything together to form a smooth batter.
5. Grease the idli molds with a little oil. Pour the batter into the molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
6. Steam the idlis in an idli steamer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once the idlis are cooked, allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the molds.
8. Serve the Oats Idli hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any other preferred accompaniments.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Oats Idli!

Note: You can also add vegetables like grated zucchini, peas, or bell peppers to the batter for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of Oats Idli can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, but here’s a general idea of the nutritional content for one serving (2 idlis):

Calories: Approximately 150-180 kcal Carbohydrates: About 25-30g Protein: Around 5-6g Fat: About 3-5g Fiber: Around 3-4g Calcium: Approximately 50-60mg Iron: About 1-2mg

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the size of idlis, the type of yogurt used, and any additional ingredients added. Oats Idli is generally a nutritious option due to the use of oats and semolina, providing complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and some protein. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional rice-based idlis and makes for a balanced meal when paired with chutney and sambar.

For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to calculate the values based on the specific ingredients and quantities you use.

Health Benefits

Oats Idli offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and preparation method:

1. Rich in Fiber: Oats are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
2. Low Glycemic Index: Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they have a slower impact on blood sugar levels, making Oats Idli a suitable option for those looking to manage their blood sugar.
3. Weight Management: The fiber and protein content in Oats Idli can help you feel fuller for longer, supporting weight management goals.
4. Heart Health: Oats are known to help reduce LDL cholesterol levels due to their soluble fiber content, contributing to better heart health.
5. Nutrient Boost: Oats Idli incorporates yogurt, which provides probiotics for gut health, and it’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from ingredients like curry leaves, mustard seeds, and vegetables.
6. Gluten-Free Option: Oats are naturally gluten-free, making Oats Idli suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease when certified gluten-free oats are used.
7. Balanced Meal: Oats Idli combines carbohydrates from oats and semolina with protein from yogurt, creating a balanced meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
8. Digestive Health: The fermentation process involved in making idlis increases the bioavailability of nutrients and may enhance digestibility.
9. Versatility: Oats Idli is a versatile dish that can be customized with various vegetables and spices to suit different tastes and nutritional needs.

Remember that the overall health benefits depend on the quality of ingredients used and the portion size. Balancing Oats Idli with a variety of other nutrient-rich foods in your diet can help you achieve a well-rounded and nutritious meal plan.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to make delicious and fluffy Oats Idli:

1. Use Rolled Oats: Opt for rolled oats instead of instant oats for better texture and nutrition in the idli batter.
2. Proper Grinding: Grind the rolled oats to a fine powder for a smoother batter. You can also mix them with semolina (sooji) for a balanced texture.
3. Fermentation: Fermentation is key to achieving soft and airy idlis. Allow the batter to ferment for a few hours in a warm place, or overnight, depending on the climate.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh yogurt and avoid using overly sour yogurt, as it can affect the taste of the idlis.
5. Fermentation Agent: Adding a pinch of baking soda or eno fruit salt to the batter just before steaming can help the idlis rise and become fluffier.
6. Vegetables: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and capsicum to the batter for added flavor, color, and nutrition.
7. Seasoning: Season the batter with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, grated ginger, and green chilies to enhance the taste.
8. Consistency: The batter should be of pouring consistency, similar to that of regular idli batter. Add water gradually to achieve the right texture.
9. Steaming: Steam the idlis on medium heat until they are cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as it can make them dry.
10. Grease the Idli Molds: Grease the idli molds with a little oil to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the idlis after steaming.
11. Serve Fresh: Oats Idli is best enjoyed fresh out of the steamer while they are still warm and fluffy.
12. Experiment with Toppings: Before steaming, you can place a small piece of carrot, a few cashew nuts, or a fresh coriander leaf on top of each idli for added visual appeal.

Remember that practice makes perfect, and you may need to adjust the quantities and techniques slightly based on your preferences and the equipment you’re using.

Serving Suggestions

Oats Idli can be served in various ways to make a wholesome and delicious meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Coconut Chutney: Serve Oats Idli with coconut chutney, a classic South Indian accompaniment. The creamy and mildly spiced chutney complements the idlis well.
2. Sambar: Pair Oats Idli with sambar, a flavorful lentil stew with vegetables. The combination of idli and sambar is a staple in South Indian cuisine.
3. Green Chutney: A fresh and tangy green chutney made with coriander, mint, and green chilies adds a refreshing contrast to the mild flavors of Oats Idli.
4. Tomato Chutney: Tangy tomato chutney is another excellent choice to serve with Oats Idli. Its vibrant color and zesty flavor enhance the idli experience.
5. Yogurt: Enjoy Oats Idli with a side of yogurt for a creamy and cooling element. You can also make a simple tadka (tempering) with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dry red chilies to add to the yogurt.
6. Vegetable Sambar: Along with regular sambar, you can prepare a vegetable sambar loaded with a variety of vegetables for extra nutrition and taste.
7. Idli Podi: Idli podi or gunpowder is a dry spice mixture that adds a kick of flavor to idlis. It’s typically mixed with a bit of oil or ghee before dipping the idlis.
8. Pickles: If you enjoy the tangy and spicy taste of Indian pickles, serving Oats Idli with a small portion of pickle can be a delightful combination.
9. Mixed Vegetable Curry: A mildly spiced mixed vegetable curry can be a substantial accompaniment to Oats Idli, providing additional nutrients and flavors.
10. Fresh Fruits: For a light and healthy option, serve Oats Idli with a side of fresh fruits like sliced mangoes, bananas, or pomegranate seeds.

Feel free to get creative with your choices and tailor the sides to your taste preferences. The versatility of Oats Idli allows you to pair it with a variety of flavors, making it suitable for different palates.

FAQs