Rava Idli aka Semolina Idli is a popular breakfast from South Idli. It is an easy to make and filling breakfast. It is an instant version of idli made with sooji and curd.
A simple coconut chutney pairs well with it. Sooji and semolina are one and the same. Sooji is more commonly used in North India while semolina or rava is the term used in South India.
Rava Idli was made popular by the MTR brand. Soon, it became a super hit in every household when it could be made in 15 minutes from scratch. Check the recipe below to make it in your kitchen.

What goes in making Rawa Idli?
Rawa or Semolina : It is the primary ingredient we need to make . I use Bombay Rawa and it turns out good every time.
Sour Curd : Here, I set the curd on a daily basis. Keep it out for a day and then use it. Do not use foul smelling curds.
Vegetables : I use finely chopped onion and grated carrot. You may add green peas and capsicum too. You will also need green chilli, curry leaves and fresh coriander. Grated ginger may be added.
Seasoning : Oil is heated in a pan with a little mustard. We add asafoetida, bengal gram, urad dal, cashew nut pieces and turmeric powder along with green chillies. The semolina is put in the seasoning and roasted for a couple of minutes on a slow flame. Ensure it is roasted well.
Mixing of the batter : Once the roasted semolina cools down, curds and salt is added. Close a lid and keep it aside for ten minutes.
Soda-bi-carbonate : Since it is an instant recipe, you will need an leavening agent to activate it. You may use eno also.
Can the pre-mix be ahead and used later ?
Yes, you can make the pre-mix and store in an air-tight container.
About the event :
It is an old post which I have edited on 23/2/24 by changing the pictures. Sending this to Foodies_Redoing Old Post_123. It is a foortnightly event, a group of bloggers work together on an old post. Please do note, I have not added carrot in the new pic.
Rava Idli | Instant Sooji Idli
Ingredients
Method
- Take oil in a thick bottomed pan and heat it on a low flame. Add mustard seeds, when they crackle add bengal gram and urad dal. Stir with a spatula and let them turn pale brown, then add cashew pieces, asafoetida, turmeric powder and curry leaves. Add the semolina and saute for some time. Turn off the stove and let cool.
- Take yoghurt and whisk it. Mix the seasoned semolina in it. Add grated carrot, onion pieces, coriander and salt to it.
- Put water in the idli pan and heat it on a low flame. Take the idli stand and grease it with a little oil. Add soda to the batter and mix well. Put a spoonful into each mould. Steam it for almost fifteen minutes on a medium flame until done.
- Semolina idlis are ready to serve. Serve hot with chutney.
Notes
Use a day old curd to make these idlis.
Eno may be used instead of soda bi carbonate.
Use fresh coriander and curry leaves to enhance the taste.

Rava Idli is a healthy, tasty and an easy to make breakfast option.

Perfect idli..SS..yumm
Thankyou so much Vani
looks soo good Jayashree. I love rawa idli, this loos so delicious and tempting :))
Thankyou dear Anu for the appreciation, made my day
İrmik ülkemde; Türkiye de çoğunlukla tatlı yapımında kullanılıyor. Lor peyniri ile yapılmış bu tarifi denemeyi düşünüyorum. Sevgiyle kalın…
Thankyou so much
Yummy idli..my favourite…this is what I do when I suddenly feel like eating idli:)…Good one dear:)
Thankyou dear Padma
Hi there to all, the contents existing at this website
are actually amazing for people knowledge,
well, keep up the good work fellows.
Thankyou so much.
I love rava idli and these semolina idli look awesome. Loved the addition of veggies to the batter I will definitely add some when I next make rava idli.
I love this easy to make and so flavorful semolina idli. I remember that use to be my lunch practically everyday when I was in Bangalore. Love it with the veggie stew.
We love Rava idli. It is so quick and easy to make . Your semolina idli looks so soft and fluffy. Perfect to snack on with some spicy chutney .