Olivia Carter
Idli, a popular South Indian dish, is a staple breakfast item enjoyed by many across the globe. This steamed rice and lentil cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Idli can be made using a traditional idli stand, which is placed inside a pressure cooker. If you’re new to making idlis or unsure about how to properly use an idli stand in a pressure cooker, don’t worry! In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of using an idli stand to make perfect idlis every time.
Firstly, let’s start with the ingredients needed to make idli batter. You will need 2 cups of idli rice, 1 cup of urad dal, and salt to taste. Soak the rice and dal separately in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain the water and grind the rice and dal separately into a smooth paste using a wet grinder or mixer. Make sure the batter is thick and slightly grainy. Now, mix the rice and dal batter together, add salt, and mix well. Cover the batter and keep it aside in a warm place for fermentation. It usually takes 6-8 hours for the batter to ferment, depending on the climate.
Once the batter is fermented, it’s time to prepare the idli stand for steaming. Fill the pressure cooker with 2-3 cups of water and place it on the stove over medium heat. Take an idli stand and grease the moulds with oil or ghee. This will prevent the idlis from sticking to the moulds. Now, pour the idli batter into each mould, filling it up to 3/4th of its capacity. Place the filled idli stand in the pressure cooker, making sure it is balanced. If your idli stand has multiple layers, place each layer on top of the other.
Close the pressure cooker with its lid and let the steam build up. Once the steam starts coming out forcefully from the vent, reduce the heat to low and cook the idlis for about 10-12 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Be careful while opening the lid as the idli stand and the idlis will be very hot. Use a spoon or a knife to gently remove the idlis from the moulds. Serve the steaming hot idlis with chutney or sambar, and enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast!
In conclusion, using an idli stand in a pressure cooker is a simple and efficient way to make soft and fluffy idlis at home. With the right ingredients, proper fermentation, and correct steaming technique, you can easily master the art of making idlis. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade idli delicacy!
What is an Idli Stand?
An idli stand is a kitchen tool used for steaming idlis, which are a popular South Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Idli stands are typically made of stainless steel or aluminum and consist of multiple circular plates with indentations or molds to hold the idli batter.
Idli stands are designed to be placed inside a pressure cooker or a steamer. The plates are stacked on top of each other, with each plate holding a certain number of idli molds. The idli batter is poured into these molds and then the plates are stacked and covered with a lid.
When the pressure cooker or steamer is heated, the water inside generates steam, which cooks the idlis. The idli molds allow the steam to circulate evenly, ensuring that the idlis are cooked thoroughly and evenly. The steam from the cooker rises and cooks the idlis, making them soft and fluffy.
Idli stands come in various sizes, with different numbers of plates and molds to accommodate different quantities of idli batter. They are a convenient and efficient way to steam idlis, as they allow for multiple idlis to be cooked at once.
Types of Idli Stands:
There are two main types of idli stands:
- Stackable Idli Stands: These are the most common type of idli stands, consisting of individual plates that can be stacked on top of each other. These stands typically come with 3-6 plates, allowing for the preparation of a large number of idlis.
- Single Plate Idli Stands: These idli stands have a single plate with multiple molds. They are ideal for small families or individuals who want to make a small batch of idlis.
How to Use an Idli Stand:
Using an idli stand is quite simple:
- Prepare the idli batter by soaking rice and lentils, grinding them into a smooth paste, and fermenting the batter overnight.
- Grease the idli molds with a little oil or ghee to prevent the idlis from sticking to the molds.
- Pour the idli batter into the molds, filling them about 3/4th full.
- Place the idli stand inside a pressure cooker or steamer filled with water.
- Cover the pressure cooker or steamer with a lid.
- Cook the idlis on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can test their doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of an idli, and if it comes out clean, the idlis are done.
- Once the idlis are cooked, remove the idli stand from the pressure cooker or steamer and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Gently remove the idlis from the molds using a spoon or a knife.
- Serve the idlis hot with chutney, sambar, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
An idli stand is a versatile and essential tool for making delicious and healthy idlis at home. It allows for quick and efficient steaming of idlis, making it a must-have for any South Indian kitchen.
Learn more about this useful kitchen tool
The idli stand is a versatile and handy kitchen tool that is essential for making delicious and healthy idlis. Idlis are a popular South Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter, and they are a staple breakfast item in many Indian households.
What is an idli stand?
An idli stand is a three-tiered steaming rack made of stainless steel or aluminum. It consists of several cylindrical compartments, each with small perforations to allow steam to pass through. The stand is designed to fit inside a pressure cooker or a large pot and is used to steam the idlis.
How to use an idli stand in a pressure cooker?
Using an idli stand in a pressure cooker is simple and straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Pour water into the pressure cooker, making sure it doesn’t reach the level of the idli stand.
- Place the idli stand inside the pressure cooker.
- Pour the idli batter into each compartment of the idli stand, filling them about three-fourths full.
- Close the pressure cooker with its lid.
- Place the pressure cooker on the stove and turn on the heat.
- Allow the idlis to steam for about 10 to 12 minutes on medium heat or until they are cooked through and soft.
- Turn off the heat and carefully open the pressure cooker.
- Use a knife or a spoon to gently remove the idlis from the compartments.
Benefits of using an idli stand
| Benefits | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Efficient steaming | The idli stand allows for uniform and efficient steaming of idlis, ensuring that they are cooked evenly. |
| Space-saving | The compact design of the idli stand allows you to steam multiple idlis simultaneously without taking up much space in your kitchen. |
| Easy to clean | The stainless steel or aluminum material makes the idli stand easy to clean and maintain. |
| Versatile | The idli stand can be used not only for making idlis but also for steaming other delicacies like dhoklas and momos. |
Overall, the idli stand is a must-have kitchen tool for anyone who loves to enjoy homemade idlis. It ensures perfect steaming results and helps you achieve soft and fluffy idlis every time.
Why Use an Idli Stand?
The idli stand is an essential tool for making traditional South Indian idli, a popular steamed rice cake. Here are some reasons why using an idli stand is beneficial:
- Efficient Cooking: The idli stand allows you to cook multiple idlis at once, saving you time and effort. The stacked design of the stand ensures that each idli gets evenly cooked, resulting in a perfect texture.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Unlike deep-fried snacks, idlis are steamed, making them a healthier option. Steaming retains the nutrients in the rice and lentils used to make the batter, providing a wholesome and nourishing meal.
- Space-Saving: The idli stand takes up minimal space in the pressure cooker, maximizing its cooking capacity. This makes it an ideal cooking tool for small kitchens or when cooking for a large number of people.
- Versatility: The idli stand can be used not only for making idlis but also for making other steamed dishes like dhoklas, momos, or even boiling vegetables. Its multi-purpose functionality makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- Durable and Easy to Clean: Most idli stands are made of stainless steel, which makes them sturdy and long-lasting. They are also easy to clean, as the smooth surface prevents food from sticking to it.
In conclusion, using an idli stand is a convenient and practical way to make delicious and nutritious idlis, while also allowing for the preparation of other steamed dishes. Investing in a good quality idli stand will enhance your cooking experience and enable you to enjoy the authentic taste of South Indian cuisine.
Discover the benefits of using an idli stand in your pressure cooker
The idli stand is a versatile and essential tool for anyone who loves making idli, a traditional Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter. The idli stand, also known as an idli cooker or idli cookware, is specifically designed to steam idlis to perfection.
Using an idli stand in your pressure cooker has several benefits:
1. Efficient steaming: The idli stand allows for uniform and efficient steam distribution, cooking the idlis evenly and ensuring they are soft and fluffy. The steam generated in the pressure cooker circulates around the idli stand, gently cooking the idlis without making them soggy.
2. Time-saving: Steaming idlis using an idli stand in a pressure cooker is much quicker compared to traditional methods. The pressure cooker creates a sealed environment that retains heat and pressure, reducing the cooking time significantly.
3. Multi-purpose: Apart from cooking idlis, the idli stand can be used to steam other dishes like dhoklas, momos, or even vegetables. Its compact size makes it a versatile tool in any kitchen.
4. Healthier cooking option: Steaming is a healthier cooking method compared to frying or baking, as it retains the nutrients and natural flavors of the ingredients. The idli stand ensures that the idlis are cooked without the need for excessive oil or fat.
5. Easy to clean: The idli stand is typically made of stainless steel, which is easy to clean and maintain. It can be washed with warm soapy water or simply wiped clean with a cloth.
Overall, using an idli stand in your pressure cooker is a convenient and efficient way to make delicious and healthy idlis. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, investing in an idli stand will elevate your cooking experience and allow you to enjoy this traditional dish whenever you want.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Idli Stand in a Pressure Cooker
Idlis are a popular South Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter. They are usually steamed using an idli stand to create soft and fluffy dumplings. If you’re new to using an idli stand in a pressure cooker, don’t worry. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process effortlessly.
Step 1: Before you begin, ensure that you have a pressure cooker and an idli stand. The idli stand consists of stacked trays with multiple round cavities to hold the idli batter.
Step 2: Start by filling the pressure cooker with water. The water level will depend on the size of your pressure cooker and the quantity of idlis you plan to make. However, a good rule of thumb is to fill the cooker with enough water to create steam for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Now, place the idli stand inside the pressure cooker. Make sure the water level does not touch the bottom of the idli stand, as this could result in soggy idlis. The stand should be elevated above the water level.
Step 4: Take the idli batter and pour it into the round cavities of the idli stand. Fill each cavity with batter, leaving some space for the idlis to expand as they cook.
Step 5: Once you have filled all the cavities with batter, cover the pressure cooker with its lid. Make sure the lid is properly sealed to create pressure inside the cooker.
Step 6: Turn on the heat and let the pressure cooker come to full pressure. You will know this when the pressure indicator pops up or the steam starts to escape from the vent. This process usually takes 7-10 minutes, depending on the heat level and the size of the pressure cooker.
Step 7: Once the pressure cooker has reached full pressure, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. This cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your idlis. You can always check by inserting a toothpick or a knife into one of the idlis. If it comes out clean, the idlis are done.
Step 8: After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and wait for the pressure to release naturally. This can take around 5-10 minutes. Avoid opening the pressure cooker immediately, as this may lead to a sudden release of hot steam.
Step 9: Once the pressure has released, carefully open the pressure cooker lid and remove the idli stand using a pair of tongs or oven mitts. Allow the idlis to cool for a few minutes.
Step 10: Finally, use a wet spoon or a butter knife to gently remove the idlis from the cavities of the idli stand. Serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
Following these steps will ensure that your idlis turn out perfectly soft and delicious every time you use an idli stand in a pressure cooker. Enjoy your homemade idlis!
FAQ
What is an idli stand?
An idli stand is a kitchen appliance used to prepare idlis, a traditional Indian dish. It is a metal or plastic stand with multiple layers or trays where the idli batter is poured and steamed.
How do I use an idli stand in a pressure cooker?
To use an idli stand in a pressure cooker, start by adding water to the pressure cooker and placing it on the stove to heat up. While the cooker is heating, grease the idli stand trays with oil or ghee. Next, pour the idli batter into each tray, filling them about 3/4 of the way. Once the water in the pressure cooker starts boiling, carefully place the idli stand inside and close the lid. Allow the idlis to steam for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked. Finally, remove the idli stand from the pressure cooker and let it cool down before removing the idlis from the trays.
Can I use a regular steamer instead of an idli stand in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use a regular steamer instead of an idli stand in a pressure cooker. Simply place the idli batter in small, greased bowls or moulds and steam them in the steamer for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the idlis.
What can I use if I don’t have an idli stand or a steamer?
If you don’t have an idli stand or a steamer, you can still make idlis using a simple hack. Take a heatproof bowl or dish, grease it with oil, and pour the idli batter into it. Place the bowl or dish inside a large saucepan or pot filled with boiling water, making sure the water level is below the rim of the bowl. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the idlis steam for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked.
Can I use a microwave instead of a pressure cooker to cook idlis?
Yes, you can use a microwave instead of a pressure cooker to cook idlis. Simply pour the idli batter into greased microwave-safe idli moulds or bowls. Place them in the microwave and cook on high power for about 3-5 minutes or until the idlis are cooked. The cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the idlis.
