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Perfect Thatte Idli Every Time with the Ninja Kitchen | Kunal Kapur Recipes

Chef Kunal Kapur Healthy & Diet 40 Mins 4 Servings 11.1K views Jul 8, 2026
Soft, fluffy, and comforting - Thatte Idli is one of my favourite South Indian dishes, and today I’m sharing my version of this classic recipe. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal, these pillowy idlis are guaranteed to be a hit. For this recipe, I’ve used the Ninja Blast for blending and the Ninja Combi for perfectly steamed idlis, making the cooking process quick and convenient. Get 25% OFF on MRP across all Shark Ninja products using my coupon code: CHEFKUNAL25

Ingredients & Measurements

Carefully curated and proportioned for authentic flavor balance. Adjust chillies and salt to your personal taste.

  • Main recipe vegetables / proteins
  • Whole and ground spices (Cumin, Turmeric, Coriander, Chilli)
  • Ginger, garlic, green chillies and fresh onions
  • Mustard oil, ghee, or neutral cooking fat
  • Fresh coriander and roasted kasoori methi for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. 1
    Ingredient Preparation: Wash, prep, and accurately measure all fresh ingredients, aromatics, and spice blends as listed in the ingredients section.
  2. 2
    Sautéing & Blooming Spices: Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium flame. Add whole spices and aromatics (ginger, garlic, green chillies) to bloom their essential oils until fragrant.
  3. 3
    Building the Flavor Base: Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent or golden brown. Stir in tomatoes and ground spices (turmeric, coriander, chilli powder), cooking on medium-low heat until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
  4. 4
    Simmering to Perfection: Incorporate the primary ingredients (vegetables, paneer, lentils, or proteins) and simmer gently with warm water or broth until tender and deeply infused with flavor.
  5. 5
    Finishing & Garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt, sprinkle freshly crushed roasted kasoori methi and garam masala, and garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve piping hot with roti, paratha, or fragrant basmati rice.

Chef Kunal's Pro Secret Tip

To make rich dressings without oil, emulsify soaked peanuts or cashews with hung curd (Greek yogurt) and a pinch of roasted cumin. Dress leafy vegetables only just before serving to retain maximum crispness and vitality.

Recipe FAQs & Expert Advice

How long can I store leftover Perfect Thatte Idli Every Time with the Ninja Kitchen?

You can store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, warm on medium-low heat on the stovetop and add 2–3 tablespoons of warm water if the gravy has thickened in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute dairy ghee/butter with mustard oil or neutral cooking oil, and replace milk/curd with coconut milk or cashew cream where applicable.

What is the key technique to get restaurant-style flavor in this dish?

Focus on blooming whole spices in hot oil first, patiently sautéing the onion-tomato masala until oil separates, and finishing with a pinch of crushed roasted kasoori methi and freshly ground garam masala right before serving.