Celebrating Idli: The Humble Icon of South Indian Cuisine

Celebrating Idli Today October 11, 2025

Idli or idly is a type of savoury rice cake: Idli or idly (/ˈɪdliː/; plural: idlis) is a type of savoury rice cake. Idli is a soft & fluffy steamed cake made with fermented rice & lentil batter.

Celebrating Idli October 22, 2025: Idli — soft, fluffy, and irresistibly comforting — is more than just a breakfast dish. It is a symbol of South Indian culinary tradition, simplicity, and nourishment. This humble steamed rice and lentil cake has transcended regional boundaries to become one of the most beloved foods across India and beyond.

“In the softness of an Idli lies the warmth of tradition and the simplicity of love.”

Icon of South Indian Cuisine

Originating from South India and Sri Lanka, Idli has been a part of the subcontinent’s food culture for centuries. Its preparation reflects a deep understanding of balance and nutrition. The batter is made by soaking and grinding rice and urad dal (black gram lentils), then leaving it to ferment overnight. This natural fermentation process not only enhances flavor but also improves digestion, making Idli a gut-friendly and probiotic-rich food. Being vegan and gluten-free, it caters to a wide variety of dietary preferences without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Idli or idly is a type of savoury rice cake, originating from South India, popular as a breakfast food in Southern India, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and in Sri Lanka.

The real charm of Idli lies in its versatility. It is traditionally served with coconut chutney and sambar — a flavorful lentil and vegetable stew — but over time, it has inspired countless creative variations. From rava idli (made with semolina) to stuffed masala idli and even fusion versions like cheese or millet idlis, this dish continues to evolve while maintaining its original essence.

Beyond its culinary appeal, Idli also represents the spirit of home and community. In countless households, steaming a fresh batch of Idlis is a morning ritual — a comforting routine that brings families together. Its lightness makes it suitable for all ages, from toddlers to the elderly, symbolizing nourishment and care.

Today, Idli has earned international fame as one of the healthiest breakfasts in the world. Whether enjoyed in a traditional banana leaf meal in Chennai, a quick tiffin box in Bengaluru, or a South Indian restaurant in New York, the soft white Idli continues to win hearts across cultures.


Why celebrate idli?

  • Global popularity: Idli is a beloved breakfast and snack in South India and has gained a global following. 
  • Versatility: It can be customized with different flours like rava or ragi, and is enjoyed with various accompaniments like sambar and chutney. 
  • Health benefits: Idli is a naturally gluten-free and lactose-free food, rich in protein, and easy to digest, making it a healthy choice. 

How to celebrate idli

  • Enjoy a special meal: On March 30, eat idlis at home or from a restaurant. Many places offer unique variations on this day. 
  • Explore new recipes: Try making different types of idli, such as those made with millet, or experiment with recipes like idli pancakes
  • Share your love for idli: Post about your idli celebrations on social media to join the global celebration. 

Idli is a classic South Indian breakfast made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal, then steamed into soft, airy, spongy cakes.

Idli Ingredients

To prepare about 20 Idlis, you’ll need:

  • 2 cups rice (preferably parboiled or Idli rice)
  • 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
  • ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
  • Salt to taste
  • Water (as needed)

How to Prepare

  1. Soaking: Wash and soak the rice and urad dal separately for 4–6 hours. Add fenugreek seeds to the dal while soaking.
  2. Grinding: Grind the urad dal into a smooth, fluffy paste using little water. Then grind the rice to a slightly coarse texture. Combine both batters in a large bowl.
  3. Fermentation: Mix well, add salt, and let the batter ferment overnight or for 8–10 hours in a warm place. The batter should rise and appear airy.
  4. Steaming: Grease the Idli molds and pour in the batter. Steam for 10–12 minutes until soft and springy.
  5. Serving: Gently remove the Idlis and serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or spicy podi (chili powder mix).

Why Idli is Special

The magic of Idli lies in its fermentation — a natural process that boosts probiotics and makes it gentle on the stomach. It’s light, energizing, and perfect for all age groups. Idli reflects the heart of Indian cooking — health, harmony, and hospitality.

Google Doodle

The Doodle Celebrating Idli launched Oct 11, 2025. Discover more Doodles by color. Select a color and discover Doodles that match.

By featuring idli, Google signals that everyday, local practices matter. It gives visibility to culinary traditions. For many outside India or South Asia, the Doodle may be their first encounter with the word “idli,” prompting discovery and dialogue.

Celebrating Idli

In celebrating Idli, we celebrate more than just food — we honor tradition, health, and the shared joy of simple pleasures. The Idli stands as a timeless reminder that true comfort often comes in the simplest forms — warm, wholesome, and made with love.

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