MTR Rice Idli Mix is a convenient, ready-to-use product designed to help you prepare soft and fluffy idlis, a popular South Indian dish, with minimal effort. Idlis are steamed rice cakes typically served with chutney, sambar, or other accompaniments, making them a favorite breakfast or snack option in many Indian households.
What is MTR Rice Idli Mix?
MTR Rice Idli Mix is a pre-mixed blend of rice flour, urad dal (split black gram) flour, and other ingredients like leavening agents. This mix eliminates the need for soaking, grinding, and fermenting rice and urad dal, which are the traditional steps involved in making idlis from scratch.
Ingredients
The primary ingredients typically found in MTR Rice Idli Mix include:
Rice Flour: The main ingredient, providing the base for the idlis.
Urad Dal Flour: Adds protein and contributes to the soft texture of the idlis.
Leavening Agents: These help the idlis rise and become fluffy during steaming.
Salt: Pre-mixed for convenience.
Nutritional Value
Idlis made from MTR Rice Idli Mix are typically low in fat and calories, making them a healthy and nutritious option. They are also a good source of carbohydrates and protein, especially when served with sambar or chutney.
Preparation and Cooking
Mixing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the MTR Rice Idli Mix with water according to the package instructions. Stir until you get a smooth batter with no lumps.
Resting: Allow the batter to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to activate the leavening agents and lets the batter thicken slightly.
Steaming: Grease the idli molds lightly with oil. Pour the batter into the molds, filling them about three-quarters full. Steam the idlis in an idli steamer or a pressure cooker (without the weight) for about 10-12 minutes on medium heat.
Checking Doneness: Insert a toothpick or knife into one of the idlis. If it comes out clean, the idlis are done.
Serving: Carefully remove the idlis from the molds using a spoon. Serve them hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any other accompaniments of your choice.
Culinary Uses
Breakfast: Idlis are traditionally served as a breakfast dish, often accompanied by coconut chutney, sambar, or a spiced lentil soup.
Snacks: They can also be enjoyed as a light snack or as part of a larger meal.
Variations: You can add grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the batter for a healthier twist. You can also experiment with adding spices or herbs like curry leaves, coriander, or green chilies for additional flavor.
Cooking Tips
Consistency: The batter should be of a thick, pouring consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water; if too thin, add a bit more mix.
Steaming: Ensure that the water in the steamer is boiling before you place the idli molds inside. This ensures that the idlis start cooking immediately and rise properly.
Softness: For extra soft idlis, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt or a pinch of baking soda to the batter before steaming.
Storage
Dry Mix: Store the MTR Rice Idli Mix in a cool, dry place, away from moisture. Once opened, it’s best to seal the packet tightly or transfer the contents to an airtight container.
Prepared Batter: If you prepare more batter than needed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. However, the freshness and fluffiness of the idlis may decrease with time.
Health Benefits
Low in Fat: Idlis are steamed, making them a low-fat and healthy option.
Easy to Digest: The fermentation process in traditional idlis enhances digestibility, though the mix is designed to mimic this effect without actual fermentation.
Gluten-Free: Since the mix is made from rice and urad dal, it is naturally gluten-free, suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
MTR Rice Idli Mix offers a quick and easy way to enjoy this traditional South Indian dish without the hassle of grinding and fermenting. If you have any more questions or need recipe ideas for serving idlis, feel free to ask!