By Garima Johar
June 2, 2026
Bite-sized idlis or mini idlis, when prepared with a spicy South Indian mix in desi ghee, make an iconic snack. To make the traditional snack with idli podi, or gunpowder, follow these 6 steps.
8-10 steamed idlis 2-3 tablespoons ghee 2 tablespoons peanuts 1 tablespoon chana dal 1 tablespoon urad dal 3 dried red chillies 1 teaspoon sesame seeds ½ teaspoon cumin seeds ¼ teaspoon tamarind 2 pinches of jaggery ¼ teaspoon salt 1 sprig of curry leaves 1 pinch mustard seed
Dry-roast the peanuts, lentils, and spices on medium heat until golden brown.
Grind the roasted ingredients to make a fine powder.
Make bite-sized pieces from the already steamed idlis.
Heat some ghee, add mustard seeds, and the idlis till they are crispy.
Coat the pieces with the podi mixture. Garnish with curry leaves and enjoy.