Idlis are savory, steamed cupcakes from southern India. Traditionally prepared from fermented black rice and lenses, they are light, soft, and constitute a basic food for breakfast in India. Naturally gluten -free, idlis are often accompanied by coconut chutney and sambar, a spicy vegetable stew. They are also rich in probiotics, thanks to the fermentation process. I served them with a Dhal of Ethiopian lenses .