When you crave soft and fluffy idlis but don’t have curd at home or don’t have time for fermentation, this Instant Rava Idli Without Curd recipe is perfect for you!
This recipe requires no curd or hours of waiting. Just mix semolina (rava), some spices, and a few simple ingredients found in your kitchen, and you can have piping-hot idlis in minutes.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, lactose intolerant, or have simply run out of curd, this quick recipe promises soft and delicious idlis every time.
This recipe is super easy, especially for new cooks. And the best part? You don’t need any special machine, a steamer or pressure cooker is enough!
Instant Rava Idli Without Curd
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine rava (semolina or sooji)
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp chana dal (optional for crunch)
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 5—6 curry leaves, chopped
- 1- An inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 small carrot, grated  (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1½ tsp lemon juice (replaces curd acidity)
- ½ tsp baking soda OR 1 tsp Eno fruit salt (just before steaming)
- ¾to1 cup water (adjust consistency)
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Roasted cashews
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Instant Rava Idli
Now, let’s go over how to make instant rava idli without curd in easy steps.
Step 1. Dry Roast the Rava
In a pan over medium heat:
- Dry roast 1 cup rava for 3–4 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Do not let it brown, you’re just removing the raw smell.
- Set aside to cool.
Step 2. Prepare the Tempering
In the same pan:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil.
- Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, chana dal, green chili, curry leaves, and ginger.
- Sauté for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add grated carrots (optional) and sauté briefly.
- Now, mix in the roasted rava and stir well to combine.
Step 3. Add Liquid Ingredients
- Transfer everything to a mixing bowl.
- Add salt, lemon juice, and just enough water to make a thick yet pourable batter.
- Rest the batter for 10 minutes so the rava can absorb moisture.
Step 4. Prepare Steamer and Idli Moulds
- Grease idli plates with oil.
- Start heating water in your steamer or pressure cooker (without the weight).
Step 5. Add Leavening Agent
- Just before steaming, mix baking soda or Eno fruit salt into the batter.
- Stir gently until the batter becomes frothy and light.
- Immediately spoon the batter into greased idli moulds.
Step 6. Steam and Serve
- Steam for 12–15 minutes on medium-high heat.
- Insert a toothpick if it comes out clean, they’re done!
- Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before removing from moulds.
- Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar. Enjoy your fluffy, healthy, instant rava idli without curd!
Expert Tips for Perfect Idlis
- Use fine rava: Coarse rava may yield denser idlis.
- Don’t overmix after adding soda / Eno: Stir gently to retain air.
- Steam immediately: Delay can flatten the batter.
- Rest the batter: Gives time for rava to absorb moisture.
- Enhance flavor: Add herbs like mint or cilantro for extra zing!
Variations to Try
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Vegan Masala Idli: Add sautéed onions, peas, and spices for a spicy touch.
- Stuffed Idli: Place a spoonful of spiced potato or paneer filling in the center of the idli.
- Cheesy Idli: Add shredded vegan cheese for kids.
- Oats-Rava Idli: Replace half of the rava with powdered oats for a fiber boost.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
- Refrigerate leftover idlis in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month (separate with parchment paper).
Reheating
- Steam again for 3–4 minutes to refresh the texture.
- Or microwave with a sprinkle of water and cover for 30–45 seconds.
Conclusion: Idli Made Easy
So now you know how to make instant rava idli without curd and without fermentation, that too easily in your kitchen!
This Instant Rava Idli Without Curd recipe is not only quick to make, but is also perfect for every occasion – be it a healthy breakfast in the morning, something light for the tiffin, or a light dinner at night.
The best part is that this No-Fermentation Idli Recipe is easy to prepare, even for new cooks. Once you have made the basic recipe, you can try out many new variations by adding vegetables, spices, or tadkas of your choice.
So what are you waiting for? Heat the steamer, prepare the batter, and enjoy these soft, fluffy Healthy Rava Idli that too without curd, without hassle.
Nutrition
Total Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 250mg | Total Carbohydrate: 10g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Total Sugars: 1g | Protein: 2g | Vitamin A: 110IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg | Potassium: 62mg
FAQ
How to make instant rava idli without curd?
You can easily make soft and fluffy rava idli without curd! Just mix semolina (rava), water, lemon juice, and Eno. Steam it, and your delicious idli is ready in minutes, perfect for a quick breakfast or light dinner.
What can I use instead of curd in rava idli?
Lemon juice or vinegar works great as a substitute for curd. They provide the acidity needed to react with Eno and make the idlis rise and turn soft.
Will rava idli still be soft without using curd?
Yes! If you use the right amount of lemon juice and Eno, your rava idlis will turn out just as soft and fluffy, even without curd.
Can I make rava idli instantly without fermentation?
Absolutely. Rava idli is an instant recipe and don’t need fermentation. Just mix the ingredients and steam your idlis will be ready in 15–20 minutes.
What can I serve with instant rava idli?
Rava idli tastes amazing with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar. You can also pair it with mint chutney or even ketchup if you like!