How to use idli cloth to make soft and delicious idlis

If you're an idli lover, you know the secret to making these fluffy and delicious rice cakes lies in the perfect texture. And that's where the magic of the idli cloth comes into play. A humble piece of cloth that has the power to transform your idlis into soft and melt-in-your-mouth creations.

What is an idli cloth and how does it work?

The idli cloth is the unsung hero of idli-making, ensuring that your idlis turn out just right every single time. Made from durable cotton or muslin, this versatile cloth allows steam to pass through while keeping the batter intact. The result? Idlis that are light, airy, and perfect in texture. This cloth is specifically designed to allow steam to permeate while retaining moisture in the batter, creating an ideal environment for fermentation and steaming.

Speciality and benefits of idli cloth:

• Lightweight and breathable
• Easy to maintain
• Helps in achieving soft idli texture 
• Does not stick to batter and retains idli shape
• Provides uniform heat distribution

How to use an idli cloth properly

• Wet the idli cloth with water and place it on the idli plate.
• Tuck in the excess cloth under the plate
• Pour batter in the idli plate and close the lid
• Once the idlis are cooked, remove the plate and place it up side down on an another place to remove the cooked idlis.
• Use the same cloth without rinsing for upcoming idlis as well
• Once idli making is done for a particular meal, remove the cloth, rinse it thoroughly in hot water to remove the residue. 
• Dry it and then store in a cool dry place.

Tips for maintaining and cleaning your idli cloth

Proper maintenance and cleaning of your idli cloth are essential to prolong its life and ensure the best results in your idli-making.

• Rinse after each use to remove batter residue
• Avoid chemicals and detergents to wash it
• Simple rubbing with hands to remove residue is more than enough
• Ensure the cloth is dry before storing to prevent bacteria growth
• Change idli cloth after some time as it may affect the quality of idlis

Where to buy an idli cloth

Idli cloth is available in two sizes

• Small 4 idli plate size - click here
• Large 5 & 7 idli plate size - click here

Sizing details:

Small 
Suitable for 4 Idli Plates
Diameter - 8 inch
Weight -10g

Large 
Suitable for 5 or 7 Idli Plates
Diameter - 14 inch
Weight -10g