which mixer should I use to grind idli batter in USA? I have been struggling with making soft idlis. I live in the US. I have tried many recipes but none of them gave soft idlis. I suspect it might be because of the grainy batter. I am using Ninja blender to grind daal and rice (separately). Any recommendations for good mixie so that my batter is smooth? Also, do I need to special rice (sona masuri) for idli/poha? I use basmati rice.
If you really want smooth idly batter, you need to use a Wet Grinder, like an Elgi.  The rotary grinding stone action of these produces a much smoother, stickier batter than any blender can.  They're also good for making chocolate.