Chennai summer has begun and its so bad that you keep wondering why you are in Chennai and not in some cool place.The only silver lining is that the idli batter ferments so well,curds set so fast and you can make lovely odi/wadi,kondattam and summer preserves.I am going to start making all those summer goodies soon..!!But for now,the idli...
Idli rice - 2 cups
Urad dal - 1 cup
Methi seeds - 1 tsp
Salt to taste
Jeera - 1 tsp
Soak idli rice and urad dal seperately for about 3-4 hours.
Soak methi seeds along with urad dal.
Wash the urad dal well and grind to a smooth paste.
Wash the rice as well and grind to a coarse paste till you get a sooji/rava consistency.Do not add much water while grinding.
Mix both the batters,add salt to taste.
Sprinkle some jeera on top and let it ferment well overnight(about 8-10 hours).
Next day,prepare idlies.
Serve with coconut chutney..!!
Grated coconut - 1/2 of one coconut
Green chillies - 2
Ginger - a small piece
Tamarind - a small piece(about the size of a channa)
Salt to taste
Coconut oil - 1 tbsp
Mustard seeds- 1 tsp
Curry leaves - 1 sprig
Grind together coconut,green chillies,ginger,tamarind and salt to a smooth paste adding required water.Do not add too much water.
Transfer to a serving bowl.
Prepare seasoning in a frying pan with oil,mustard seeds and curry leaves.
Pour it into the chutney and serve.