Studies on an Alternative Method for Preparation and Fermentation of idlis Made from Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam) Verdc.) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)

The present study was undertaken to develop an alternative idli from proso millet with horse gram and fenugreek seeds. Two types of wet batters (Batter A & Batter B) were prepared by soaking the ingredients proso millet, horse gram and fenugreek separately (in the ratio by weight 7:2:1) in excess water for 8 hours at room temperature (25±2ºC). In method A, the ingredients were soaked in excess water and whereas in method B, fenugreek was soaked in buttermilk. The soaked ingredients were ground separately with adequate amount of water using a grinder and mixed with the addition of 1% salt. The resulting batter was fermented for 10 hours at room temperature. The batter was analyzed for its microbial load (Total Plate Count, Lactobacillus and Yeast and Mold) and physico-chemical properties (height rise, pH and titratable acidity) by drawing aliquots at fixed intervals. Microbial analysis revealed maximum load at 6th hour of fermentation for TPC, LAB and Yeast growth. Suppressing activity of the organisms was seen after this stage and there was a sharp decline in microbial growth (LAB and Yeast). The pH and total titratable acidity ranged between 4.88-6.20 and 0.19–0.51% respectively. The nutritional analysis and sensorial acceptance of the idli formulated with both the batters were also studied. Both the idlis were found to have a two-fold increase in protein content and a 50% reduction in carbohydrate content when compared with the traditional rice idli. The sensory analysis was conducted with 100 untrained panelists and the results revealed that idli prepared from Batter A was preferred. A dry ready to cook idli mix was also formulated and was studied for the above said properties. The study highlights that proso millet, horse gram and fenugreek can be used as an effective alternative for preparation of idli.