Idli's Hidden Roots: The Indonesian Connection to South India's Staple

• Idli, a beloved South Indian dish, may have originated in Indonesia, not India.
• Historians link it to 'Kedli,' a steamed rice dish brought by Southeast Asian traders.
• Food historian K. T. Achaya and ancient texts like 'Iddalige' support foreign influence.
• Indian cooks adapted techniques, adding urad dal in the 12th century for softness.
• Idli evolved into a healthy, globally popular dish, transcending culinary boundaries.

Why It Matters: Idli, a global favorite, surprisingly originated in Indonesia before becoming a South Indian icon.