World Idli Day 2026: From Rava Idli to Oats Idli, Try These 5 Easy and Healthy Recipes at Home

Every year on March 30, World Idli Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. Idli, a soft and steamed dish from South India, is known for being light, easy to digest, and highly nutritious, which is why it has become popular across the country.

If you are bored of eating the same plain idli every day, here are 5 different types of idlis you can easily prepare at home with simple ingredients.

1. Rava Idli (Instant & Quick Recipe)

Rava idli is a quick version that does not require fermentation. It is made using semolina (sooji), curd, and spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sooji (rava)
• 1 cup curd
• Mustard seeds, curry leaves
• Green chilies, salt

Method:

• Roast sooji lightly
• Add curd and spices
• Prepare thick batter
• Pour into moulds and steam for 10–12 minutes

Why try: Perfect for busy mornings.

2. Oats Idli (Healthy & Fiber-Rich)

Oats idli is a modern, healthy option packed with fiber and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats (powdered)
• ½ cup rava
• Curd, vegetables
• Salt, spices

Method:

• Roast oats and grind into powder
• Mix with rava, curd, and veggies
• Prepare batter and steam

Benefit: Helps digestion and keeps you full longer.

3. Vegetable Idli (Colorful & Nutritious)

This version includes fresh vegetables like carrot, beans, and peas.

Ingredients:

• Idli batter
• Grated vegetables
• Salt and spices

Method:

• Add vegetables to batter
• Mix well and steam

Why try: High in fiber and vitamins.

4. Poha Idli (Soft & Light)

Poha (flattened rice) idli is known for its soft texture and quick fermentation.

Ingredients:

• Rice
• Urad dal
• Poha
• Salt

Method:

• Soak and grind ingredients
• Ferment batter
• Steam into idlis

Best for: Soft and fluffy texture lovers.

5. Ragi Idli (Perfect for Fitness Diet)

Ragi idli is a healthy option made with millet flour, ideal for weight watchers and diabetics.

Ingredients:

• Ragi flour
• Urad dal
• Salt

Method:

• Prepare fermented batter
• Steam like regular idli

Benefit: Low glycaemic index and rich in nutrients.

Why Idli Is So Popular

• Steamed, not fried
• Easy to digest
• Suitable for all age groups
• Can be made in many varieties

Experts consider idli one of the healthiest breakfast options due to its fermented batter and light texture.

Conclusion

From traditional recipes to modern healthy twists, idli offers endless variety. On World Idli Day 2026, try these different types of idlis at home and enjoy a tasty, healthy, and versatile meal.