Idlis are the ubiquitous steamed rice cakes that only South Indians can create to perfection. That melt in your mouth creation served with chutney and sambar is an all time favourite. A typical south Indian breakfast means idli, sambar, dosai and coconut chutney all over the country. Idlis can also be eaten as a snack during the day. The fluffier the idli the better it is. It is always served with steaming bowlfuls of sambar, the spicy lentil soup with tomatoes, onions and chillies.

The accompanying coconut chutney is made from fresh coconut which is grated and blended with green chilies and curry leaves. The more popular idli sambar joints like Murugan in Chennai and MTR in Bangalore have people queuing up at the door from early morning for their share. And nobody minds sharing tables with perfect strangers if its crowded.

“The idli at Murugan is served with four different chutneys. The consistency in quality is a major draw as far as I am concerned.”

PRASANNA Actor