Quick Cream of Wheat Savory

Serves: 4
Cooking time (approx.): 16 minutes
Style: South Indian

2  tablespoon(s) coconut oil
1  teaspoon(s) mustard seeds
1  teaspoon(s) split husked Bengal gram (chana dal)
1  teaspoon(s) split husked black gram (udad dal)
4  green chillies chopped
1  tablespoon(s) cashewnut bits
1  sprig curry leaves
1  cup(s) semolina (or quick cream of wheat)
4  cups sour yoghurt
1  cup(s) coriander leaves chopped
2  cup(s) grated coconut if available
1  teaspoon(s) soda bicarbonate
salt to taste

1. Heat the coconut oil in a pan. Toss in the mustard seeds followed by the grams and fry till the seeds splutter fully. Add the green chillies, cashewnut bits and curry leaves. Stir-fry on medium level for about 3  minutes or till the grams are red in color.
2. Add the semolina and stir-fry on medium / low level for about 3  minute(s) or till golden in color and aromatic. Let cool. Once cooled, mix in the salt as per taste and the soda bicarbonate.
3. Divide the semolina mixture into two portions to steam then in two batches. Take a portion of semolina mixture and mix in half the quantity of yoghurt, coconut and coriander leaves. Keep aside for 15 minutes to ferment. Meanwhile, heat water in a steaming vessel. Pour the batter onto greased idli moulds and place it in the steaming vessel. Cover and steam on high level for about 10  minutes or till the idlis are fluffy and well cooked. Repeat the procedure to make the next batch of idlis.

TIP:

• If coconut oil is not available, any other vegetable oil can be used.
• If you do not have an idli mould, try muffin cups.
• The stir-fried semolina mixture can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored.