Idlis Not Rising? 5 Tips To Make The South Indian Staple Soft And Fluffy 

By Garima Johar

September 16, 2026

If your idlis are not rising and have that fluffy texture, here are some things you might be missing. Before whisking the batter for your next batch, scroll through these tips to ensure your idlis are soft and pillowy.

Ratio Of Ingredients

While you do choose quality ingredients, ensure that you take rice and dal in a 2:1 ratio.

Soaking Time

Soaking rice and dal for 4-6 hours before grinding yields a smoother batter, making the fluffiest idlis.

Add Fenugreek Seeds

Another tip for fluffy idlis is to soak and grind some fenugreek seeds along with rice and dal.

Use Minimal Water

When you grind the batter, consistency is key. To maintain a thicker batter, it's important to use as little water as possible.

Let The Batter Ferment

The secret to the fluffiest idlis is to be patient and ferment the batter for 8-12 hours.