Heat a nonstick pan and dry roast the ragi flour on low flame till a nice aroma comes. It takes about 3-4 minutes.
In another pan, bring the water to a boil. Add salt and oil to it.
When it starts to a rolling boil, add the flour and quickly mix it well until incorporated.
Cover and keep it aside for 10 mins.
Using a spoon, knead the dough until you can handle the heat.
Grease your palm and knead well until the dough becomes smooth.
Take the idiyappam press and grease it with oil.
I used my idli plates, so grease it well.
Fill the Idli steamer with water.
Meanwhile, place banana leaves on the molds.
Divide the dough into equal balls, and fill it into the press.
Over the plate, press the prepared dough inside the idiyappam press.
Press in a circular motion onto the idli plates. Make sure you spread your hand in a wide circle, else everything will fall in the same spot.
Stack the plates and place them inside the big pot. Steam for about 10 minutes.
Remove the leftover dough from the press, grease if required, and repeat until all done.
Once steaming is done, allow it to stand for 10 minutes.