south_indianEasyveganvegetariangluten freedairy free
Foxtail Millet Idli
RATING
4.3/5(28)
TASTE SCORE
8/10
Steamed savory cakes from fermented foxtail millet and urad dal batter.
SERVINGS
6
INGREDIENTS
For 6 servings
NUTRITION · PER SERVING
74
74
CALORIES · 1 PCS
Protein3g · 16%
Carbs13g · 70%
Fat1g · 12%
Fiber2g
Sugar0g
Saturated fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Sodium27mg
Potassium94mg
Phosphorus69mg
METHOD · 3 STEPS
Soak the millet and lentils separately
- Rinse foxtail millet thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Place the millet in one bowl and the urad dal with fenugreek seeds in another.
- Cover both with ample water and soak for at least 6 hours.
TIPUsing plenty of water ensures the grains hydrate fully for a smoother batter.Grind the ingredients and ferment the batter
- Drain the soaking water and grind the urad dal into a fluffy, smooth paste.
- Grind the millet separately to a slightly coarse, rava-like consistency.
- Combine both batters with salt and allow to ferment in a warm place overnight.
TIPThe batter should double in volume; in cold climates, keep it inside a switched-off oven.Steam the idlis until fluffy and firm
- Lightly grease the idli moulds with a drop of oil.
- Pour the fermented batter into the moulds, filling them three-quarters full.
- Steam for 12 to 15 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean.
TIPWait for 2 minutes after turning off the heat before scooping the idlis out.
PRO TIPS
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a wet grinder instead of a mixer-grinder for a fluffier urad dal paste.
- 2Do not over-mix the batter after fermentation to keep the air bubbles intact.
- 3Ensure the millet is ground to a coarse texture to give the idlis a better bite.
- 4If the batter is too thick, add water sparingly; it should be of dropping consistency.
RECIPE VARIATIONS
Adapt it for your goals.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why this is on our healthy list.
fiber
High Dietary Fiber
Promotes healthy digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes.
energy
Low Glycemic Index
Provides sustained energy release, making it suitable for diabetics.
protein
Rich in Plant Protein
Urad dal provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.
digestion
Probiotic Benefits
Natural fermentation supports a healthy gut microbiome.
QUESTIONS?
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional rice idlis, offering more fiber and a lower glycemic index.
PAIRS WELL WITH



