About Idli Podi /Idli milagai Podi
If you’re a fan of South Indian recipes, you’ll love the aromatic blend of spices known as Idli Podi. This versatile condiment, is also called Idli Milagai Podi, where Milagai means Chilies and Podi means Powder, This adds a burst of flavor to steamed idlis and dosas. This is a staple food in almost all South Indian households and it comes in handy when you don’t have enough time to prepare any side dishes for Idli or Dosa. .Using this recipe you can make another popular South Indian Dish called Podi Idli which is nothing but Idli smeared with Podi and sesame oil.
Here’s how to make your own Idli Podi at home:
Ingredients for Idli Podi:
- 1 cup urad dal white or black urad dal( Here I have used black urad dal . You can even use white urad dal)
- 1/2 cup chana dal
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 5 strings of curry leaves
- 8 garlic cloves
- 15-20 dried red chilies (adjust the number according to spice preference and the chilly you are using. Here I have used dried round chilies)
- 1 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
How to make Idli Podi:
Instructions:
1.Roasting the Ingredients:
- Heat a pan over medium heat and dry roast urad dal, chana dal , curry leaves , dried red chilles and garlic cloves
- Switch off the stove and add asafoetida and salt to these roasted ingredients. Set aside to cool.
2.Grinding of Idli Podi:
- Once cooled, grind all these roasted ingredients to a coarse powder. Be cautious while grinding to avoid making it too fine.
3.Storing:
- Allow this IdliPodi to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. I normally keep the Idlipodi in zip lock covers and then place it in an airtight container. This method keeps it stay fresh for several weeks. Also make sure you store it in a cool, dry place.
Usage:
- Serve IdliPodi with hot, steamed idlis or dosas along with a dollop of ghee or sesame oil for a delightful breakfast.
- It can also be mixed with hot rice and a little ghee for a quick and flavorful meal.
Benefits:
- IdliPodi is not only delicious but also nutritious, thanks to the protein-rich dals and the antioxidant properties of sesame seeds and chilies.
- Make your own IdliPodi and customize the ingredients to suit your taste and spice level.
This Idlipodi or Idli Milagai podi, has different versions. The one I have shared with you is a Tamil Nadu version. This recipe varies depending on each culture. Prepare this IdliPodi recipe at home and elevate your South Indian culinary experience.