Mysore Idli Made Simple: Pressure Cooker Cooking Tips

Mysore Idli, known for its soft, fluffy texture and gentle fermented flavour, is a beloved South Indian breakfast classic. While many assume a special idli steamer is needed, you can effortlessly prepare Mysore Idlis at home using a reliable pressure cooker like the Meyer Presta.

Designed with a traditional whistle for steam regulation and a sturdy stainless-steel body for even heat distribution, Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker brings peace of mind to everyday cooking — including delicate dishes like idlis.

This blog will guide you through the process of making perfect Mysore Idlis using your Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker, with simple tips for success.

Why Choose Meyer Presta for Idli Making?

The Meyer Presta Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is more than just a kitchen essential — it's engineered for consistent performance and safety. Here’s why it’s ideal for making Mysore Idlis:

• Triple-Layer Base for Even Heating: Ensures uniform steaming and prevents scorching.

• Nickel-Free Stainless Steel: Safe, non-reactive, and long-lasting — perfect for cooking fermented foods.

• Traditional Whistle System: Offers steam control and cooking assurance with audible cues.

• Durability & Peace of Mind: Built to withstand daily use while delivering dependable results.

With Meyer Presta, you can prepare soft, spongy Mysore Idlis with confidence — no idli steamer required.

Ingredients for Mysore Idli Batter

(Serves 4–5 people | Makes 16–18 medium idlis)

• 2 cups idli rice (or parboiled rice)

• 1 cup urad dal (whole or split)

• 1/2 cup poha (flattened rice)

• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds

• Salt to taste

• Water as needed

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Soaking the Ingredients

• Rinse and soak the rice and fenugreek seeds together for 4–5 hours.

• Soak urad dal and poha in another bowl for the same duration.

2. Grinding the Batter

• Grind urad dal and poha into a smooth, fluffy batter using minimal water.

• Grind rice and fenugreek to a slightly coarse texture.

• Mix both batters, add salt, and beat well with clean hands to incorporate air for better fermentation.

3. Fermenting the Batter

• Cover the batter and let it ferment in a warm area for 8–12 hours or overnight.

• It should rise and become airy with a slightly sour aroma.

Steaming Mysore Idlis in Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker

You can steam Mysore Idlis perfectly using your Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker, even though it features a traditional whistle. The trick lies in removing the whistle during the steaming process to mimic the effect of an open steamer.

MEYER Presta Tri-ply with Outer Lid Pressure Cooker 2L

Equipment Needed:

• Idli stand or moulds

• Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker

• 1.5–2 cups water for steaming

• A trivet or ring stand

Steaming Steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Cooker

• Pour 1.5 to 2 cups of water into the cooker base.

• Place a trivet or ring stand to elevate the idli stand above the water.

Step 2: Fill the Idli Moulds

• Lightly grease each mould with oil.

• Fill 3/4 of each mould with fermented batter to allow room for rising.

Step 3: Steam the Idlis

• Place the idli stand inside the cooker.

• Close the lid but do not use the whistle during steaming.

• Turn on the heat to medium and steam for 12–15 minutes.

• Switch off the flame and allow the cooker to rest for 5 minutes before opening.

Using the Meyer Presta without the whistle during steaming ensures gentle, controlled cooking — exactly what Mysore Idlis need to become soft and spongy.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

• Skip the Whistle for Idlis: While Meyer Presta features a traditional whistle for everyday cooking, remove it when steaming idlis to avoid pressure buildup.

• Avoid Overfilling: Ensure the water level doesn’t touch the idli plates, which could lead to soggy idlis.

• Let Rest Before Demoulding: Allow 5 minutes of rest time after steaming for cleaner demoulding.

• Ensure Batter Ferments Properly: Fermentation is key to soft texture — look for volume doubling and airy consistency.

Conclusion

You don’t need a fancy steamer or specialized appliance to make authentic Mysore Idlis at home. With a trusted pressure cooker like the Meyer Presta, you can enjoy soft, fluffy idlis that rival any restaurant.

Its traditional whistle provides peace of mind during daily cooking, while its versatile design allows for gentle, whistle-free steaming when needed. Balanced, durable, and built for Indian kitchens — Meyer Presta helps you bring timeless recipes like Mysore Idli to the modern table with ease and precision.