Traditional Kanchipuram Idli: A South Indian Staple You Must Try

By Shreya Sarpal

June 7, 2025

Kanchipuram idli is also known as kovil idlis, a traditional South Indian dish. Unlike the regular idlis, this one is flavoured with spices, cumin, black pepper, turmeric and asafoetida, which makes it unique and aromatic.

Ingredients

1 cup raw rice 1 cup idli rice 1/2 cup urad dal 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds 2 tbsp ghee 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 1/2 tsp black pepper (coarsely crushed) A pinch of hing 1/4 tsp turmeric powder To taste salt

Step 1

Soak raw rice, idli rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds for 6 hours and grind coarsely and ferment overnight.

Step 2

Add ghee – tempered with cumin, black pepper, turmeric, and asafoetida to prepare a batter with salt.

Step 3

Pour batter into greased moulds and steam for 10-12 minutes.

Step 4

Demould and serve hot with chutney.