Fried Idli in an Air Fryer is a healthy, quick, and easy way to use leftover Idlis. It is an irresistible snack that is enjoyed by all ages.
How to serve Air Fried Idli
Serve them as is or with a sprinkle of your favorite spices. Pair it with some spicy curry or just as a side.
Air-fried idli is done in as little as 15 minutes, so this is a perfect after-school snack for hungry kids. Just cut the idlis and add it to the air fry them for 15 minutes and you are done.
Fried Idli is made using leftover Idli. Idli which is a steamed healthy cake made using lentil and rice batter. It is made using fermented Idli batter. Check out my post on how to ferment Idli batter in cold climates.
These fried idli are best made using 1-day-old idli. This is especially best if you deep fry them as they will absorb less oil, as they become a little dry the next day.
These idlis are best consumed immediately. As when they get cold they might get a bit chewer. However, one can again bake or air-fry them. I would not advise to deep fry again as it will absorb too much oil.
Dietary suggestions
Idlis are vegan and gluten-free as only 2 main ingredients rice and lentils are used. While steaming some grease the idli with vegetable oil, some make it in a cloth.

Fried Idli (Air Fryer and Fried)
Equipment
- Wok/Kadai (If Frying)
- Frying Spoon (If Frying)
Ingredients
- 10 Idli Leftover
- 1 teaspoon oil Optional – see notes
- 2 Cups oil If Deep frying
Instructions
Air Fryer Idli
- Preheat the Air fryer to 180 degrees C/356 degrees F
- Cut the idli into shape as desired.10 Idli
- Drizzle oil and roughly coat it all over the idlis.o1 teaspoon oil
- Air fry it for 15 minutes shaking or turning them in between
- Serve them warm.
Deep frying Idli
- Heat oil in a heavy bottom wok.2 Cups oil
- Cut the idli into shape as desired.10 Idli
- Once the oil is hot, add the idlis. (Do not heat the oil to smoking hot, just hot enough)
- Fry the idlis on a medium stove until golden brown all over.
- Serve them warm.
Notes
- I add a teaspoon of oil while air frying as they become a little dry.
- Oil helps in not getting the idlis dry.
- I do not add any spices to this, we just enjoy it as is. If required one can sprinkle it with red chili powder, chaat masala, or your favorite spice.
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Mayuri Patel
Thursday 16th of May 2024
I am a huge fan of fried idli. I purposely make extra so that we can enjoy some fried crunchy ones the next day. Today I air fried them and they turned out super crunchy. So much healthier and not oily at all.