Foxtail Millet Idli Recipe – A Healthy Indian Diabetic-Friendly Breakfast
Cuisine: South Indian | Course: South Indian Breakfast | Diet: Diabetic-Friendly
Description:
Foxtail Millet Idli is a nutritious twist on the traditional South Indian favorite, made entirely with foxtail millets and urad dal. This healthier alternative is packed with the goodness of millets and is a perfect choice for diabetic-friendly meals. Soft, spongy, and light, these idlis provide a wholesome breakfast option that is low in glycemic index, making them ideal for those managing their blood sugar levels.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Foxtail Millet | 1 cup |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 8 hours (overnight soaking)
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
Instructions
-
Soak the Ingredients:
Start by washing and soaking the foxtail millet and urad dal in separate bowls with enough water. Add methi seeds to the urad dal bowl. Allow them to soak overnight, or for a minimum of 8 hours. -
Prepare the Batter:
After soaking, drain the excess water from the foxtail millet and urad dal. In a blender, combine the soaked urad dal and methi seeds, adding just enough water to create a thick, smooth batter. Once blended, transfer the batter into a large bowl for fermentation. -
Blend the Millet:
In a separate blender, grind the soaked foxtail millet with just enough water to create a smooth batter. Add this millet batter to the urad dal batter. Stir in 2 teaspoons of salt and mix well to combine both batters. -
Fermentation:
Cover the batter and let it ferment in a warm place for 5 to 6 hours, or overnight. The batter should rise and become light and airy, with visible bubbles indicating proper fermentation. -
Prepare the Idli Steamer:
Once the batter has fermented, gently stir it without disturbing the air pockets. Grease the idli molds with a little oil. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling them about three-quarters full. -
Steam the Idlis:
In a large steamer, add a little water to the base. Place the filled idli molds into the steamer and cover. Steam the idlis on high heat for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and open the steamer. Test the idlis by inserting a knife or pick; if it comes out clean, the idlis are ready. -
Serve:
Let the idlis cool for a minute or two. Use a spoon dipped in water to easily remove the idlis from the molds by starting from the edges. Serve the foxtail millet idlis immediately with your choice of chutney, sambar, or a healthy accompaniment like Thakkali Vengayam Sambar.
Serving Suggestions
For an Indian Diabetic Meal, serve these fluffy and nutritious Foxtail Millet Idlis alongside Murungakkai Vendhaya Keerai Sambar and Horsegram Sesame Chutney for a well-balanced, diabetic-friendly meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Foxtail Millet: A gluten-free, high-fiber grain that supports heart health and regulates blood sugar.
- Urad Dal: Rich in proteins and iron, contributing to overall well-being.
- Methi Seeds: Known for their medicinal properties, methi seeds are excellent for controlling blood sugar levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Foxtail Millet Idli recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures while keeping your health in check. It is a healthier choice for those managing diabetes, offering all the comfort and deliciousness of traditional South Indian breakfast fare, without compromising on taste or nutrition.
