Cost Analysis of Making One Idli: Variations and Optimizations
The cost of making one idli can vary based on several factors, including the price of ingredients, location, and scale of preparation. An understanding of these factors can help in optimizing the cost of making idlis, especially in contexts like bakeries, canteens, or even home kitchens. This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the cost involved in making one idli and discuss how to optimize this cost.
Ingredients and Their Costs
Idlis are traditionally made from a batter prepared from rice and urad dal. Other ingredients like salt and water are also used but contribute negligible costs.
Rice
The price of rice varies based on its type and quality. A rough estimate of the cost for one cup (approximately 200 grams) of rice ranges from ?0.20 to ?0.50.
Urad Dal (Black Gram)
Urad dal is also essential for making idlis. The cost of 1/4 cup (about 50 grams) of urad dal is often between ?0.10 to ?0.30.
Other Ingredients
Only a minimal amount of salt is needed, costing less than ?0.01, and water is virtually free.
Total Cost Calculation
Using the above prices, the total cost for making the ingredients needed to prepare 12 idlis can be estimated as follows:
Cost of Rice
Rice costs: ?0.20 to ?0.50
Cost of Urad Dal
Urad dal costs: ?0.10 to ?0.30
Total Cost for 12 Idlis
Total cost (rice urad dal salt) for 12 idlis: ?0.30 to ?0.81
Cost Per Idli
Cost per idli: ?0.025 to ?0.067
Conclusion: The cost of making one idli ranges from approximately ?2.5 to ?6.7, depending on the prices of ingredients and quantities used.
Additional Context: State Government Support and Energy Costs
The Indian government often subsidizes the cost of food for subsidized eateries, such as Amma Canteens. For instance, a State government might provide 300 grams of urad dal for ?30, enough to make about 45 to 50 idlis. Thus, the cost of rice for each idli in an Amma Canteen would be approximately 2 to 3 paise.
Optimization of Idli-Making Cost
For home or commercial purposes, practical considerations include using high-quality ingredients and optimizing energy costs. Consider the following assumptions and calculations:
Batter Cost
Batter: Assuming a batter costs ?60 per kg, and given that one steamer can steam 15 idlis, and four lots of batter are required for 1 kg of batter.
Energy Costs
LPG Connection: Costs ?900. With an LPG connection lasting for one month and with five burners, each used for an average of 3 hours each day, the energy cost per idli is approximately ?0.5. Water Cost: Around 100 ml of water is used per batch and around 1 liter for cleaning. Assuming water costs ?0.3. Miscellaneous Costs: Including lighter/match box and other costs, approximately ?0.2.
Total Cost Per Idli
Based on these assumptions, the cost to make a single idli, including batter and energy, would be approximately ?2. Adding in accompaniments like chutney or sambar, which are not part of this calculation, would increase the total cost.
Conclusion
ByIdli’s cost can significantly vary depending on the type and quality of ingredients and the scale of production. Understanding these factors can help in optimizing the cost of making idlis, whether in a home kitchen or a commercial setting. For further accuracy, it’s advisable to make adjustments based on local prices and specific conditions.