Kanchipuram Idli is almost like a masala Idli with a distinct flavour of cumin seeds , dry ginger, and black pepper. Another thing that adds to the flavour of Kanchipuram Idli is that it is steamed in dried mandharai leaves which adds a woody flavour. A slight variation from regular soft Idli, the texture of Kanchipuram Idli is also little denser than regular Idli.
As you all know my love of this delicious south Indian breakfast of Idli ( almost same as I love Punjabi staples paratha), I am always on the lookout to try any different idli variety. Kanchipuram Idli is not a very popular variation of Idli in North India, so you don’t find many places where you can taste an authentic Kanchipuram Idli here. I tasted it first at a South Indian friend’s home, I don’t know it’s the authentic Kanchipuram Idli or not but I just loved the aroma , the flavour, and how it looked served on a banana leaf. (Read: Wonderful Varieties of Idli ) When I wanted to try them myself I could not find dried mandharai leaves for steaming the Kanchipuram Idli so I substituted with the disposable wooden bowls to impart some woody flavour. I know, it’s not similar to the one we get using mandharai leaves but I think it works if you can not find those leaves to steam the idli.
You will find these idlies in different shapes, more often than not these are steamed in large sizes when sold commercially. In restaurants , Kanchipuram idli is cut into convenient size pieces and served with the sides of sambhar and chutney. I like to serve it with Idli pods and Onion and tomato chutney. While people usually enjoy it with filter Kappi my favorite thing is to serve the Kanchipuram idli with steaming glass of cutting chai. If you are idli lover like me you may like to try Soft Rice Idli with tips of making soft rice idli and Coconut chutney that is served with it. Ragi Idli or Fried Idli and Podi Idli , Chana Dal Idli are another variations of Idli recipes. If you like to know about different varieties of Idli and history about origin of idli, you may want to read this article on Idli Varieties and History of Origin of Idli If you cook this recipe and find it helpful please do share it on facebook, twitter or pin it on Pinterest this may help others too and keeps me motivated to write more. Click a pic and post it with hashtag #MyTastyCurry — I love to see your recipes on Instagram, Facebook,&Twitter!
📖 Recipe
