Oats Idli recipe is a yummy twist on regular idli! Unlike the usual rice and lentils, oats make it lighter and healthier. It's full of fiber, helping digestion and keeping you full longer. One day, my friend swapped regular idli with oats, and we couldn’t tell the difference! It was delicious!
About Oats Idli Recipe
Oats Idli, also called Steamed Oatmeal Idli, is a fun twist on the traditional South Indian idli recipe! Normally, idli is made from rice and is super popular at home.
However, people are now looking for healthier options, so adding oats has become a cool change! This version is not only healthier but also keeps the same yummy taste and soft texture.
What’s cool is that oats, which are packed with fiber and protein, are the main ingredient. By using oats instead of rice, this dish shows how recipes can evolve with time!
Whenever I think of idli, I remember making them with my mom on weekends! First, we’d soak the rice and dal overnight. Then, in the morning, we’d blend it, and the kitchen would smell soooo good! While the idlis steamed, we’d dance around the kitchen, super excited to eat them!
Finally, we’d enjoy the soft, yummy idlis with coconut chutney! It always felt so special, and now, every time I make idlis, it brings back those fun memories!
Health Benefits of Oats Idli
- High in Fiber: Oats are packed with fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Low Glycemic Index: They release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, keeping your energy steady throughout the day.
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Oats are full of important nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins to keep you strong and healthy!
- Aids Digestion: The fiber in oats helps your digestive system work smoothly.
- Supports Heart Health: Oats can help lower cholesterol, promoting a healthy heart!
- Helps with Weight Management: Since oats fill you up, they can help you control your appetite and maintain a healthy weight.
Why Choose Oats Idli?
Well, it's a great option for many reasons! First, it’s gluten-free, making it perfect for those who can’t eat gluten.
Second, it’s diabetic-friendly because oats have a low glycemic index, which helps keep blood sugar levels steady.
Finally, it’s weight-loss-friendly because oats are high in fiber, which keeps you full longer! Compared to traditional idlis, Oats Idli is a healthier, smarter choice for your body!
Explore More Tasty Delights: Oats Khichdi, Crispy Oats Chivda, Flavorful Egg Biryani, and Wholesome Moong Dal Cheela Recipes!
What you Need to Make This Oats Idli Recipe
Recipe Ingredients:
Ingredients Notes:
- Oats: The main ingredient! I remember the first time I used oats in idli, and it was a game-changer!
- Urad Dal (Black Lentils): Adds protein and helps with texture. I once forgot to soak them overnight, and the idlis weren’t as soft—lesson learned!
- Rice Flour: Gives a smooth texture. It makes the idli fluffy and light!
- Baking Soda: Helps the idlis rise and stay soft.
- Curd (Yogurt): Adds tanginess and helps in fermentation. My mom always says, “A little yogurt makes everything better!”
- Ginger & Green Chilies: For that extra flavor kick! I love adding more than the recipe calls for!
- Curry Leaves: Adds aroma and freshness. Whenever I add curry leaves, it feels like home.
Importance of Fermentation
1. Fermentation Benefits: Fermentation is key to making Oats Idli soft, fluffy, and light! It allows the batter to rise and develop a delicious, slightly tangy taste. Plus, fermentation boosts the nutritional value by increasing healthy bacteria that help digestion.
2. Alternative Methods: If you're in a hurry, don’t worry! You can skip fermentation by adding baking soda or Eno fruit salt. This will help the batter rise quickly and still make tasty idlis in no time!
How to Make Oats Idli Recipe
Step by Step Guide
1. Prepare the Oats and Dal:
- First, dry roast the oats in a pan over medium heat until they turn slightly golden and smell nice.
- Then, let them cool. Meanwhile, soak the urad dal and chana dal in water for 1-2 hours.
2. Grind the Mixture:
- Next, drain the soaked dals and add them to a blender with the roasted oats.
- Grind everything together until you have a coarse mixture. If it’s too thick, add a little water to help blend it. The mixture should look like a thick batter.
3. Prepare the Batter:
- After that, transfer the ground mixture to a large bowl.
- Add rice flour, yogurt, and salt, then mix well to create a smooth batter. It should be thick but pourable. If needed, you can add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.
- Allow the batter to ferment in a warm place for about 8-12 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can skip this step, but the texture will be different.
4. Tempering:
- Now, heat oil in a small pan.
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they start to crackle, add chopped green chilies, ginger, curry leaves, and chopped coriander leaves.
- Sauté for a minute, then mix this tempering into the fermented batter.
5. Steam the Idlis:
- Next, grease the idli molds with a little oil and pour the batter into them.
- Steam the idlis in a preheated idli steamer or a pot with a steaming rack for about 12-15 minutes.
- To check if they are done, insert a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Serve:
- Finally, let the idlis cool slightly before taking them out of the molds. Serve oats idli recipe hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or your favorite dips!
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Accompaniments:
- Serve Oats idli Recipe with sambar (lentil stew) for that perfect South Indian taste!
- You can also enjoy oats idli recipe with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or a tangy mint chutney.
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Try different chutneys like peanut, ginger-garlic, or tamarind chutney for a unique twist!
- Pair your Oats idlis with a delicious vegetable stew for a hearty meal.
Idli Variations:
- You can also try Oats Rava Idli, Oats Moong Dal Idli, or Oats-Methi Idli (fenugreek leaves) for exciting new flavors!
Tips
How to Ensure Soft and Fluffy Oats Idlis
Sometimes, idlis can turn out dense or hard, but don't worry, it’s fixable!
First, make sure you add enough water to the batter. If it’s too thick, the idlis can become dry. I learned this the hard way when my first batch was a bit tough—oops!
Next, fermentation time is key. If you don’t let the batter sit long enough, the idlis won’t be fluffy. I always leave it overnight, and the next morning, the idlis turn out soft and perfect!
Why Your Idlis Might Not Ferment?
Sometimes, your idlis might not ferment properly, and here’s why! First, temperature plays a huge role. If it's too cold, the batter won't rise. I once tried fermenting on a chilly morning, and my idlis stayed flat!
Also, old yeast might not work as well. Always use fresh yeast! Finally, the type of oats can make a difference. If you use quick oats, they might not ferment as well as regular oats. So, be sure to use the right kind!
Nutritional Information💪
Healthier Alternative:
- Calories: Oats idli is lower in calories than regular idli, making it a great choice for a light meal.
- Protein: Oats idli has more protein than regular idli, helping you feel fuller for longer.
- Fiber: With more fiber, oats idli supports digestion and keeps you energized!
- Vitamins: It’s packed with essential vitamins like B-vitamins, which help boost energy.
Low-Calorie Diet Option:
- Oats idli recipe is perfect for a low-calorie, high-protein breakfast or lunch! It keeps you full without the extra calories, so you can stay on track with your healthy eating goals.
How to Store and Reheat Oats Idlis
Storing Leftover Idlis:
- Keep leftover idlis in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They can last for about 2-3 days!
Reheating Tips:
- To reheat, you can use a microwave for 30-40 seconds or steam them in an idli steamer for a few minutes.
- If you don't have a steamer, you can heat them on the stove with a little water in the pan!
Did you try this Oats Idli recipe? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below and share it on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
❔FAQs
Instant oats can be used, but rolled oats are preferred as they provide a better texture and flavor.
Add a little water to loosen the batter if it is too thick. Mix well to achieve the desired consistency.
Ensure that you grease the idli molds well before pouring in the batter. If they still stick, use a spoon or knife to gently loosen them.
Finely chop vegetables like carrots, beans, or spinach and mix them into the batter before steaming. This enhances the nutritional value and flavor.
Yes, but the texture and fluffiness may be different. For quicker preparation, you can skip fermentation but expect denser idlis.
Store leftover Oats Idlis in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them by steaming or microwaving before serving.
Hard idlis may result from under-fermentation or over-steaming. Ensure proper fermentation and avoid over-steaming for softer idlis.
Oats Idli Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Oats (dry)
- ¼ Cup Urad Dal (split black gram)
- 2 tablespoon Chana Dal (split chickpeas)
- 1 Cup Rice Flour
- 1 Cup Sour Yogurt
- ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 2 Green Chilies finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Ginger grated
- 10-12 Curry Leaves
- 2 tablespoon Coriander Leaves chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon Oil (for tempering)
Instructions
Prepare the Oats and Dal:
- First, dry roast the oats in a pan over medium heat until they turn slightly golden and smell nice.
- Then, let them cool. Meanwhile, soak the urad dal and chana dal in water for 1-2 hours.
Grind the Mixture:
- Next, drain the soaked dals and add them to a blender with the roasted oats.
- Grind everything together until you have a coarse mixture. If it’s too thick, add a little water to help blend it. The mixture should look like a thick batter.
Prepare the Batter:
- After that, transfer the ground mixture to a large bowl.
- Add rice flour, yogurt, and salt, then mix well to create a smooth batter. It should be thick but pourable. If needed, you can add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.
- Allow the batter to ferment in a warm place for about 8-12 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can skip this step, but the texture will be different.
Tempering:
- Now, heat oil in a small pan.
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they start to crackle, add chopped green chilies, ginger, curry leaves, and chopped coriander leaves.
- Sauté for a minute, then mix this tempering into the fermented batter.
Steam the Idlis:
- Next, grease the idli molds with a little oil and pour the batter into them.
- Steam the idlis in a preheated idli steamer or a pot with a steaming rack for about 12-15 minutes.
- To check if they are done, insert a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Serve:
- Finally, let the idlis cool slightly before taking them out of the molds. Serve oats idli recipe hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or your favorite dips!
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