Microwave Idli Maker - How to make Idlis in the Microwave

I like to cook in the microwave oven. I am still exploring the different ways and methods of microwave cooking. One thing, I am really proud of, is my discovery of steaming idlis in the microwave oven.

Traditionally, idlis were always made in the heavy metal idli maker on fire. But the microwave is a great boon. Along with the microwave oven, new utensils like microwave bowls, containers have also come in the market.

One such microwave safe ware is the microwave idli maker. In this post, I will share pictures of the microwave safe idli maker and also how to use it. I have used the pictures of microwave safe idli container for making mini idlis.
For making normal size idlis too, there is a microwave safe idli maker available in the market. I am posting this article for the benefit of many women who are time bound and have hectic schedules. They have to take care of their homes, families as well as their jobs.

Pictures of Microwave Idli Maker and How to use it:

1: This is the complete look of the idli maker from outside. Its the complete set. This entire set goes in the microwave oven. Now lets see what it contains of and how the parts are used for making idlis.



2: The picture below is of the top cover with the idli moulds and the base.



3: These are the idli moulds. One need not smear oil in the moulds. The idlis once done, can be easily removed from the moulds with a spoon.



4:There are 2 set or stands of idli moulds in one microwave container. Each mould set contains of 15 moulds. So two sets make 30 moulds. Thus one gets 30 mini idlis ready in 3-5 minutes. Thats so much of your time and labour saved.

For normal size idlis, each stand has 3 or 4 moulds depending on the make and model. So one gets 6-8 idlis ready in minutes. Its great for working women as it saves a lot of time.



5: This is the base of the microwave idli maker. In this base, 125 ml of water is added. When the idlis are being microwaved, it is steam from this water that is utilized for the steaming of the idlis.


6: So its simple to use the microwave idli maker and assemble it. The steps are given below:
You add water in the base.
Pour the idli batter in the moulds.
Keep the idli moulds on the base.
Put the top cover and close properly
Keep the idli maker in the microwave.On full power, microwave the mini idlis for 3-5 minutes. This time varies as it depends on the make and model of the microwave oven. Check to see if the idlis are done by inserting a knife or fork in the idlis. If the knife or fork does not come out clean, then microwave again for 1-1.5 minutes.
Mini Rava Idlis take 3-3.5 minutes whereas mini idlis made from rice-black lentils batter take 4-5 minutes
Note: I have made both rava idlis and the plain idlis in this microwave safe container and trust me, the idlis have always come out great.

Just a word of caution - When you remove the container from the microwave, then be careful as the hot steam coming from the container can burn your hands. Use a glove or a kitchen napkin to open the top cover. Keep your face at a distance and not too close.