Ragi Idiyappam Recipe | Healthy Steamed String Hoppers
If there is one dish that shows how simple ingredients can create magic, it is Idiyappam — delicate steamed string hoppers that melt in your mouth. And when you make them with ragi flour (finger millet) instead of rice, you get a dish that’s not just light and fluffy but also packed with fibre, calcium, and nutrients.
Popular in the coastal kitchens of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Idiyappam is usually served with coconut milk, vegetable stew, or just a drizzle of ghee and sugar. This Ragi Idiyappam recipe combines tradition and health, making it a perfect addition to your wholesome steamed food repertoire.
Why Ragi Idiyappam?
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✅ Gluten-free & diabetic-friendly
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✅ Rich in calcium & iron — great for bones and energy
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✅ Light on the stomach — ideal for breakfast or dinner
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✅ Steamed goodness — no excess oil, no guilt
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
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1 cup ragi flour (finger millet flour)
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1 cup hot water (adjust as needed)
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp oil or ghee
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Dough
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Dry roast the ragi flour for 3–4 minutes on a low flame to remove its raw taste.
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Boil water with salt and oil.
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Slowly add the hot water to the flour, mixing with a spoon.
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Once slightly cool, knead into a smooth, soft dough.
2. Shape the Idiyappam
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Grease the Idiyappam maker/sev press with oil.
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Fill it with dough.
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Press directly onto greased idli plates or banana leaves into circular string nests.
3. Steam
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Steam in an idli steamer for 10–12 minutes until firm and cooked.
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Remove carefully and let cool for a minute before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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With sweetened coconut milk for a traditional Kerala-style breakfast.
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With vegetable stew or kurma for a hearty meal.
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With ghee and jaggery powder for kids (and sweet lovers!).
Tips & Variations
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If the dough feels too dry, sprinkle a little more hot water.
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Don’t skip roasting the flour — it avoids stickiness.
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Mix a bit of rice flour with ragi flour (50:50) if you’re making it for beginners — helps hold shape better.
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You can prepare the dough in advance, but always steam it fresh for the best taste.
Neerja Bhatnagar
If you're looking for interesting and effective content on mental health, parenting, lifestyle, reviews, and more, consider subscribing to my other blog, Neerja's Musings.
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