How To Make Idlis In An Instant Pot

Idlis are soft, fluffy, steamed rice cakes that are a staple in South Indian cuisine. Made from fermented rice and lentil batter, they’re packed with protein, gut-friendly probiotics, and a whole lot of flavor. 

Traditionally eaten for breakfast with coconut chutney or sambar, idlis are versatile enough to pair with any dipping sauce or curry.

With an Instant Pot, you can simplify the fermentation and steaming process, making this beloved dish even more accessible. 

Below, we’ll guide you through every step of preparing vegan idlis at home.

Ingredients for Vegan Idlis

To make idlis, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice (preferably idli rice or parboiled rice)
• 1 cup urad dal (split and skinned black gram)
• ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional, for better fermentation)
• Salt, to taste
• Oil or neutral cooking spray (to grease the molds)

Preparing Idli Batter

The process of making idli batter involves three main steps: soaking, grinding, and fermenting.

Step 1: Soak the Ingredients

1. Rinse the rice and urad dal separately under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and debris.
2. Soak the rice and fenugreek seeds in one bowl and the urad dal in another. Add enough water to cover both by an inch. Let them soak for 6 hours.

Step 2: Grind the Batter

1. Drain the soaked ingredients and reserve some of the soaking water.
2. Blend the urad dal in a high-powered blender or wet grinder with a small amount of the reserved water. Grind until smooth and fluffy. Transfer to a large bowl.
3. Blend the rice and fenugreek seeds until slightly coarse (similar to fine semolina texture). Add this to the bowl with the urad dal.
4. Mix both batters together thoroughly. Add salt to taste and adjust the consistency with water if needed. The batter should be thick yet pourable.

Step 3: Ferment the Batter

1. Cover the bowl with a loose-fitting lid or damp cloth and let it ferment in a warm place for 12–20 hours. In colder climates, use the yogurt setting on your Instant Pot to maintain a consistent temperature.
2. The batter is ready when it doubles in size and becomes airy and bubbly.

Steaming Idlis in an Instant Pot

Once your batter is fermented, it’s time to steam the idlis. You’ll need an idli stand or an alternative steaming setup.

1. Prepare the steamer: Add 1 ½ cups of water to the Instant Pot and set it to Sauté mode until the water begins to boil. Lightly grease the idli molds with oil or cooking spray.
2. Fill the molds: Pour the batter into each mold, filling it about ¾ full to allow room for the idlis to expand.
3. Steam the idlis: Place the idli stand in the Instant Pot, close the lid, and keep the venting position open. Switch to Steam mode and steam for 10–12 minutes.
4. Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick or skewer into an idli. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
5. Cool and remove: Let the idlis cool slightly before gently removing them from the molds.

Serving Suggestions

Idlis are perfect for dipping and can be served with:

• Coconut chutney: A creamy and mildly spiced South Indian classic.
• Sambar: A tangy and spiced lentil stew with vegetables.
• Mint or tomato chutney: Flavor-packed alternatives for variety.

For a sweet twist, dip the idlis in melted vegan chocolate or drizzle with maple syrup for a delightful dessert option.

Final Thoughts

Vegan idlis are a must-try if you’re looking for a healthy, protein-packed snack or meal. With the Instant Pot, fermenting and steaming idlis is easier than ever, making this traditional South Indian dish accessible to anyone.

Once you master the technique, you’ll have a batch of light, fluffy idlis ready to pair with chutneys, soups, or curries. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with gut-friendly nutrients, making them a win for your health and taste buds alike.

Ready to give it a go? Let the batter ferment, steam those idlis, and enjoy this South Indian classic at home!