πΆοΈπ₯ Idli Podi
(South Indian Gunpowder)
Fiery, nutty, aromatic spice powder served with idli, dosa & ghee
Spice Level: πΆοΈπΆοΈπΆοΈ
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins | Makes: 1 cup
Calories (approx): ~35 kcal per tbsp
π₯ Crunch, Spice & Condiments on the Side
πΏ Introduction
Idli Podi β also lovingly called Gunpowder β is the fiery heartbeat of South Indian breakfasts.
A roasted blend of lentils, chilies, sesame, and spices, it transforms simple idlis and dosas into bold,
addictive bites when mixed with ghee or coconut oil.
βA spoonful of fire, warmth, and comfort β flavor that lingers like memory.β
Idli Podi
(South Indian Gunpowder)
Photo by Stirred By Spice
π Ingredients
To Roast
ΒΌ cup urad dal
ΒΌ cup chana dal
1β2 tbsp sesame seeds
6β8 dried red chilies (adjust spice)
1 tsp black pepper (optional)
1 sprig curry leaves
Β½ tsp asafoetida (hing)
Salt to taste
For Serving
Melted ghee or coconut oil
π½οΈ Instructions
Roast the Dals β Dry roast urad dal and chana dal separately until golden and aromatic.
Roast Chilies & Sesame β Toast red chilies until crisp; roast sesame until they splutter.
Add Curry Leaves β Roast until dry and crisp.
Cool Completely β Prevents clumping and sogginess.
Grind β Pulse all roasted ingredients with salt and hing into a coarse, sandy powder.
Store β Keep in an airtight jar for 1β2 months.
π· Optional Serving Notes
Serve by mixing 1 tbsp podi with warm ghee or coconut oil.
Perfect with idli, dosa, uthappam, rava dosa, or drizzled over Upma/Pongal.
π¬ Soulful Note
Each spoonful of podi carries home β the aroma of dry-roasting, the crackle of chilies, the warmth of gheeβ¦
a taste that belongs to every South Indian memory.
π Cookβs Wisdom / FAQs
Cook's Wisdom
Tip: Add garlic (2β3 cloves) for Andhra-style podi.
Roast everything on low-medium heat for even browning.
For milder podi, reduce chilies and add more sesame.
Store in fridge for longer shelf life.
Always cool ingredients before grinding.
π Nutrition (Per Serving β Approx.)
Calories 35
Protein 2g
Carbs 3g
Fat 2g
Fiber 1g
ππΆπ The Bottom Line
Bold, nutty, and irresistible β Idli Podi turns any tiffin plate into an explosion of flavor.
𧑠Meet the Heart Behind the Spice
Hi, Iβm Maya Shetty β cook, storyteller, and spice lover.
Through Stirred By Spice, I share recipes that warm both the kitchen and the heart β where simple ingredients and warm flavors turn everyday meals into moments of connection.
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