6 Easy Tips To Ferment Idli Batter In Winter

By Krati Purwar

January 11, 2024

Image Credit: Freepik

Cold weather slows down the process of fermentation, making the idli batter thick, dense and not at all fluffy. A few simple tips can help you ferment the batter to perfection so that you make the softest and fluffiest idlis. Here are some such tips you can use.

Image Credit: Freepik

Keep In Warm Place

Either place the batter container in the oven overnight with its lights on or inside a large vessel containing warm water. The heat will speed up the process of fermentation.

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Add Yoghurt Or Yeast

Either add a pinch of yeast or a tablespoon of fresh yoghurt to ensure that the batter ferments to perfection. Yoghurt has active cultures, while yeast acts as an agent for the process.

Image Credit: Freepik

Add Warm Water 

When you are grinding lentils and rice, you can add warm water to the mixture to make it soft and kickstart the fermentation.

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Soak Ingredients Overnight

In the cold weather, it is essential that you soak lentils and rice for at least 8-10 hours or overnight. It will help with grinding and fermentation.

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Cover The Batter

When you keep aside the batter for the fermentation process, keep it covered. It will help to keep the batter warm and speed up the process of fermentation.

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Keep A Check

After keeping aside the container for the fermentation to kick in, be patient, but keep checking at regular intervals. The batter will rise in volume and develop a sour smell.

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