This week I am sharing a very versatile breakfast recipe from south India. Yes ….it is our very own Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idli . This is an instant recipe that needs no soaking and just 30 mins to put all the ingredients together including resting time.
A wholesome twist on the traditional South Indian breakfast, this Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idli is a nutritious delight that blends taste with health. Made with a nourishing mix of oats and almond meal instead of rice and lentils, these idlis are packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients—perfect for a light, filling meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.
Loaded with finely chopped seasonal vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, and lightly seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, these idlis are steamed to soft, fluffy perfection. The almond meal adds a subtle nutty flavor and enhances the texture, while oats bring in a hearty earthiness. Serve them hot with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or a bowl of steaming sambar for a comforting, guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re following a clean eating plan or simply want to experiment with a modern, healthier version of idlis, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your breakfast (or dinner!) table
Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idli – A Healthy Take on a Classic Favorite
In today’s fast-paced world, where healthy eating is no longer just a trend but a lifestyle choice, reinventing traditional recipes with a nutritious twist is both exciting and essential. The Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idli is one such delicious reinvention—a fusion of tradition and modern nutrition. Rooted in South Indian culinary heritage, idlis have long been celebrated for their light, steamed texture and gut-friendly fermentation process. However, for those looking to cut down on carbs or avoid refined grains, this oats and almond meal version offers a fantastic alternative without compromising on taste or texture.
Why Oats and Almond Meal?
Oats are a powerhouse of soluble fiber, known to support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and aid in digestion. Their subtle flavor pairs beautifully with the nutty richness of almond meal, which is high in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Together, they form a nutrient-dense base that makes these idlis both filling and energizing.
A Colorful Medley of Vegetables.
The addition of finely chopped vegetables—such as grated carrots, and bell peppers—not only enhances the flavor and texture but also adds a pop of color and a boost of vitamins. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies, especially for kids or picky eaters.
Lightly Seasoned, Perfectly Steamed.
Tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, ginger, and green chilies, the batter is delicately seasoned to infuse warmth and subtle spice into every bite. Steaming the idlis preserves nutrients while giving them their signature fluffiness, making them easy to digest and light on the stomach.
Versatile And Wholesome.
These idlis are suitable for a variety of dietary preferences—be it vegetarian, low-carb, or diabetic-friendly diets. They make a perfect breakfast, light lunch, or evening snack. Pair them with chutneys, sambar, or even a dash of ghee for an extra touch of indulgence.
Perfect for Health-Conscious Foodies.
Whether you’re on a wellness journey, managing your weight, or just looking to make smarter food choices, Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idlis offer the ideal balance of taste and nutrition. They prove that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring—it can be vibrant, flavorful, and truly satisfying.
OATS AND ALMOND MEAL VEGETABLE IDLI
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Idli Mould
- 1 Heavy Bottom Pan
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Instant Oats
- 1 Cup Semolina / Sooji
- 3/4 Cup Almond Meal
- 1 No Red Bell Pepper Finely Chopped
- 450 Grams Thick Yogurt
- 1 Cup Water
- Salt to Taste
- 1 Tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1/4 Tsp Asafetida /Hing
- 1 Sprig Curry leaves finely chopped
- 1/2 Cup Grated Carrot (Optional)
- 3 Tsp Oil
Instructions
- Dry Roasting the Base Ingredients:Heat a wide-bottomed pan and dry roast the instant oats for about 2 minutes until they release a nutty aroma. Transfer to a plate and let them cool. In the same pan, dry roast the almond meal for about a minute, then set it aside to cool as well.
- Tempering & Veggies:Add a little oil to the pan. Once hot, add mustard seeds. When they begin to splutter, toss in chopped capsicum, grated carrots, a pinch of asafetida, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute. Then, add the sooji (rava) and roast on low heat for around 2 minutes. Mix everything well and turn off the heat.
- Grinding:Once cooled, grind the roasted oats and almond meal separately into a slightly coarse powder. Avoid making it too fine.
- Preparing the Batter:In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarsely ground oats, almond meal, and the rava-vegetable mixture. Add yogurt and mix well. Gradually add water to adjust the consistency—aim for a smooth, idli batter-like texture. Cover and let the batter rest for about 20 minutes.
- Steaming the Idlis:Grease the idli moulds lightly. Pour the batter into each mould, filling them up to 3/4 full. Steam the idlis in an idli cooker or pressure cooker (without the whistle) until they are cooked through. Use a toothpick to check—if it comes out clean, the idlis are ready.
- Serving:Your soft, fluffy, and wholesome idlis are ready to serve! Enjoy them hot with your favorite spicy chutney or a comforting bowl of sambar. I served mine with a fiery onion chutney for an extra kick!
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
- Almond Meal Substitute: If you don’t have almond meal, you can use finely ground almonds or almond flour. For a nut-free version, replace it with powdered sunflower seeds or extra oats.
- Sooji (Rava): Traditional sooji contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can use millet rava (like foxtail millet or little millet rava) or skip it entirely and adjust with extra oats.
- Yogurt: Dairy or plant-based yogurt both work well. For a vegan version, coconut or almond yogurt is a great substitute.
- Vegetables: Feel free to customize! Finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, corn, or even beetroot can be added for variety.
Tips for Best Results
- Consistency Matters: The batter should be thick yet pourable—similar to traditional idli batter. Too thin and the idlis will turn out flat, too thick and they may become dense.
- Grinding Texture: Keep the oats and almond meal slightly coarse for a grainy, hearty texture. If ground too fine, the idlis may become pasty.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time! It helps the rava and oats absorb moisture and results in fluffier idlis.
- Instant Version: Since this recipe doesn’t require fermentation, it’s ideal for a quick breakfast or light dinner.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with spicy onion chutney, coconut chutney, or tomato garlic chutney for a bold flavor contrast.
- A warm bowl of sambar makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Drizzle a little ghee or sesame oil on top for added richness and flavor.
Storage & Meal Prep
- The batter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. If it thickens, just add a splash of water before steaming.
- Leftover idlis can be refrigerated and reheated by steaming or lightly sautéing with curry leaves and mustard seeds for a quick idli upma.
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Yum! I love the look and sound of these idlis. They are super soft, healthy and delicious – what’s to not love?
Idli with oats and almond meal sounds so healthy and protein rich breakfast. Beautiful color and soft texture of the idli looks so inviting !
super soft, healthy and delicious idlis these are looking ! much healthy due to use of oats and almond meal here
Liked the use of Almond Meal in idli..will love to try it .. The Idlis looks super soft with all the healthy ingredients..So good to pack in kids lunch box with their favourite chutney or ketchup!!
This is a very different and healthy combo .. I will surely make these idlis sometime soon.
Almond meal in an idli, never heard nor thought about it. With oats, almond meal this sounds a. Very healthy breakfast
Almond meal, oats, carrot wow Preethi you made this idli super healthy. Also sounds delicious. Loved the look. So innovative. Never thought of using almond meal in idli. Superb share.
healthy diet combo thanks for sharing
Wow ! Almond meal in an idli is something new. Looks awesome
Wow.. idlis using almond meal.. This is very innovative and healthy idli recipe.
These Instant Oats and Almond Meal Vegetable Idlis look healthy and delicious. Great idea to add oats to idli batter
That’s a great recipe to use almond meal. I would have never thought of using it in idli recipe. Very nutritious and it will pair so well with oats.
Healthy and wholesome idlis! Am bookmarking it. What Is unique is that inspite of being an instant version, yet no rising agent is used. I am keen to try it out soon.
Thank you Neha. I am sure you will love it.
Wow oats and almond meal idli looks hearty! Love the idea of adding almond meal to our very own idli, makes its hearty and a wholesome meal checking all nutrition labels!
Thank you Priya. I am so glad you loved it.
Preethi, I am always looking for healthy and instant recipes that I can serve for breakfast or brunch. Like this oats and almond meal vegetable idlis. It’s got the fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins all rolled in one. Have bookmarked this recipe to try out over the weekend.
Thank you . I am sure you will love it.
This is a perfect instant idli recipe for us in the coming weeks. I love the recipe, and I can add it to our lunch or dinner. My Father-in-law will love it.
Glad you loved it Archana. Thank you .
Such a healthy and filling breakfast. Liked the addition of almond meal here. I have another recipe to make it for my breakfast menu.
Thank you Jayashree. I bet you will love it .
Oats and almond meal in south indian idli is a nice innovation. I sure must try it soon
Do try Priya . You will definitely love it . Thank you .