Spice Up Your Idlis! 🔥 Authentic Milagaai Podi Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes!)
What is Milagaai Podi?
Why Should You Make Your Own Milagaai Podi?
The Essential Ingredients of Milagaai Podi
Ingredients
(Yields ~2 cups)
Bengal gram (Kadalai paruppu) – 1 cup
Urad dal (Ulutham paruppu) – 1 cup
Dried red chilies – 3 cups (adjust for spice preference)
Sesame seeds – 25g (3 tbsp, black or white)
Asafoetida (Perungaayam) – ½ tsp
Gingelly oil (sesame oil) – 1 tbsp
Salt – to taste
Preparation Steps
1. Roast Sesame Seeds
Heat a dry pan on medium flame. Add sesame seeds and roast for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. Transfer to a plate.
2. Roast Lentils & Chillies
In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp gingelly oil. Add:
Bengal gram
Urad dal
Red chillies
Asafoetida
Roast on low-medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the dals turn golden and the chillies crisp. Let cool completely.
3. Grind the Mixture
In a mixer grinder, combine the roasted dals, chillies, sesame seeds, and salt.
Pulse to a coarse powder (avoid over-grinding to retain texture).
4. Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Pro Tips
Cooling: Ensure ingredients are fully cooled before grinding to prevent moisture.
Spice Level: Reduce red chillies to 1–2 cups for a milder version.
Flavor Boost: Add 2 tbsp grated dry coconut while roasting for a Kerala-style twist.
Serving Suggestions
Mix with gingelly oil and serve with soft idlies or crispy dosas.
Sprinkle over steamed rice with a dollop of ghee.
Use as a seasoning for upma or poha.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of roasted lentils and sesame seeds adds depth, while red chillies provide a bold kick. Gingelly oil enhances the aroma, making this podi a versatile, pantry-friendly condiment.
Try this Milagaai Podi recipe and bring authentic South Indian flavors to your table! 🌶️✨