Kanchipuram Idli is a soft, steamed South Indian rice cake made from fermented batter, naturally light and probiotic. This healthy vegetarian breakfast is low in calories, easy to digest, and a family morning staple.
Wash the short grain rice, raw rice, and split urad dal thoroughly; soak in water for 4 hours.
Drain the grains and dal, then grind together with just enough water to a coarse, thick batter. Mix well. Leave to ferment overnight (8–10 hours) in a warm place until bubbly.
Heat ghee in a small pan over medium heat; fry cashews until golden and remove. In the same ghee, add black peppercorns, cumin seeds, ginger powder, and asafoetida. Sauté for 1 minute, then pour over the batter.
Stir fried cashews and seasoning into the fermented batter, add salt, and mix gently to retain air bubbles.
Pour batter into greased idli molds or a deep dish. Steam over medium-high heat for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before unmolding and serving warm.