Ingredients:

For Cornmeal Idli/Dosa Batter:

• 2 cups cornmeal
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for idli)

For Cornmeal Dosa:

• The prepared Cornmeal Idli/Dosa batter
• Water (if needed to adjust the consistency)
• Vegetable oil for cooking dosas

Instructions:

For Cornmeal Idli/Dosa Batter:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, yogurt, and water. Mix well to create a smooth batter. The batter should have a pouring consistency, similar to regular dosa batter.

2. Add salt and baking soda (if making idlis) to the batter and mix until they are well incorporated. Baking soda is used to make the idlis soft and fluffy.

3. Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for about 2-3 hours. During this time, the cornmeal will absorb the moisture and the batter will thicken slightly. You can add more water to adjust the consistency if needed.

To Make Cornmeal Idli:

1. Grease the idli plates with a little oil or ghee.

2. Pour a ladleful of the Cornmeal Idli batter into each idli mold.

3. Steam the idlis in an idli steamer or any steamer for about 12-15 minutes or until they are fully cooked. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or a knife into an idli; it should come out clean when they're ready.

4. Let the idlis cool for a few minutes, then remove them from the molds.

To Make Cornmeal Dosa:

1. If you'd like to make Cornmeal Dosa instead of idli, you can use the same batter. To adjust the batter consistency for dosa, you might need to add a little water. The dosa batter should be slightly thinner than the idli batter.

2. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron griddle (tava) over medium-high heat. Grease it with a little oil.

3. Pour a ladleful of Cornmeal Dosa batter onto the center of the hot griddle.

4. Quickly spread the batter in a circular motion to make a thin, round dosa. Drizzle a little oil along the edges of the dosa.

5. Cook the dosa until the edges start to lift and the bottom is golden and crisp.

6. Flip the dosa and cook the other side until it's lightly browned.

7. Serve the Cornmeal Idli/Dosa hot with your choice of chutney or sambar.

Cornmeal Idli/Dosa is a delicious and gluten-free alternative to traditional idli and dosa. Enjoy it as a healthy and hearty South Indian breakfast or snack!