PC: AI Generated
Prepare soft idiyappam with steam
Because the batter will rise as it cooks, do not fill the moulds completely. An idli stand can be used for more than just making idlis. The small moulds and stacked plates make it useful for steaming many other foods at home. You can use it to steam vegetables, momos, and dhokla, or prepare rice noodles and traditional sweets. It can also help you cook small portions without using a large steamer. This makes an idli stand useful for quick snacks, light meals, and everyday cooking. You do not need to keep it in the cupboard after making breakfast. With a few simple changes, the same stand can be used for several dishes. It can help save kitchen space and reduce the need for extra cooking tools. From steamed vegetables to homemade momos, there are several easy ways to give an old kitchen favourite a new purpose. So, the next time you take out your idli stand, think beyond idlis and try using it for something different. The same steaming setup can be useful for traditional sweets and snacks such as kozhukattai. Place the prepared pieces in the moulds, keeping some space between them. Steam them until the dough is soft and cooked through. You do not need to fry them, which helps keep the texture soft. Lightly grease the moulds before adding the dough so the pieces are easier to remove after cooking. The small moulds also make it easy to prepare several portions at once. You can make a small batch for an evening snack or steam more pieces when you have guests at home. Idiyappam can also be prepared in an idli stand. Divide the rice noodle mixture into small portions and place them in the moulds. Cover the stand and let the steam cook the noodles until they are soft and ready to serve. Since the food stays above the boiling water, it cooks without being in direct contact with it. This makes the idli stand useful when you want to prepare a small batch at home. Once cooked, serve the idiyappam with coconut, curry, or your preferred side dish. The separate moulds also keep each portion together, making it easier to lift and serve without breaking the noodles. Puttu is usually made with a special puttu maker, but you can also use an idli stand for smaller portions. Place the prepared mixture in the moulds and steam it until cooked. The small moulds make it easy to prepare individual portions at the same time. This can be useful when you want to make a small batch at home. Once the puttu is ready, remove the portions carefully and serve them warm with your favourite side dishes. You can enjoy them as part of breakfast or serve them as a light snack. You can also use an idli stand to make small steamed vegetable bites. Mix finely chopped vegetables with grains or lentils and add herbs and spices for flavour. Add the mixture to the moulds and steam until the bites are cooked through. This is also a simple way to use leftover vegetables and turn them into a new snack. The small portions are easy to serve as a snack or side dish. If you like a crispier texture, cook the steamed bites in a pan for a few minutes before serving. You can also use an idli stand to make small steamed cakes at home. Prepare your favourite cake batter and lightly grease the idli moulds before filling them. Add water to the lower vessel, place the stand inside, and cover it with a lid.
