Name: Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 6 h 7 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups basmati rice; 1 cup urad dal; 1 cup parboiled rice; 1 tsp fenugreek seeds; 1 cup water; 1 tbsp salt; 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Discover the delights of South Indian cuisine with this simple, nourishing recipe for Plain Dosai, a type of crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Eaten traditionally for breakfast or as a snack, these thin, crispy crepes are an essential part of the culinary landscape in the southern regions of India.

Photos of Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes) Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are basmati rice, urad dal, parboiled rice, and fenugreek seeds, which may not be immediately available in your home pantry. Urad dal, a type of lentil, and fenugreek seeds can be found in the international aisle of major supermarkets or at local Indian grocery stores. Make sure to plan ahead, as the batter needs to ferment for at least 12 hours before cooking.

Essential Ingredients for Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes)

Basmati rice: A fragrant, long-grain rice known for its light, fluffy texture when cooked.

Urad dal: A type of lentil that is soaked and ground into a batter for the dosai. It gives a creamy texture and distinct flavor.

Parboiled rice: This is rice that has been partially boiled in the husk. It helps provide the right texture and crispiness to the dosai.

Fenugreek seeds: These seeds impart a mildly bitter, caramel-like flavor which is essential to the overall taste of the dosai.

Water: Used to mix the batter.

Salt: Enhances the flavors.

Vegetable oil: Used to grease the pan before making each dosai.

One reader, Gery Gonsalves says:

This plain dosai recipe is a game-changer! The crepes turned out perfectly crispy and delicious. The instructions were easy to follow, and the dosai had an authentic South Indian flavor. I'm so glad I tried this recipe - it's now a staple in my kitchen!

Gery Gonsalves

Techniques Required for Making Plain Dosai

How to prepare dosa batter: Soak the rice, dal, and fenugreek seeds, then blend them into a smooth paste. Allow the batter to ferment for at least 12 hours.

How to thin the dosa batter: If the batter is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

How to cook dosa: Heat oil in a skillet, pour a ladle of batter, and spread it into a circular shape. Cook until the edges are dry and curl up, then flip and cook the other side until golden and soft.

How To Make Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes)

Plain Dosai are Indian, crepe-like savory treats made from a hearty blend of grains. Whip up a delicious serving in just a few minutes!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 2 minutes

Soak and Ferment Time: 14 hours

Total: 14 hours 7 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsbasmati rice,raw
1cupurad dal
1cupparboiled rice
1tspfenugreek seeds
1cupwater,or as needed
1tbspsalt
2tbspvegetable oil,or as needed

Instructions

Combine the basmati rice, urad dal, parboiled rice, and fenugreek seeds in a bowl.
Cover with water, then soak for 2 to 3 hours.
Drain the rice mixture, then transfer to a blender. Add water, ¼ cup at a time, and blend until smooth paste forms. Add salt.
Transfer the batter to a covered container, then set aside to ferment for at least 12 hours.
Thin the batter, if necessary, by stirring in 1 tablespoon water at a time.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ladle ¼ cup of batter into the skillet, spreading it quickly into a circular shape.
Fry for for 1 to 2 minutes until edges start to look dry and curl from the pan. Flip the dosa, then cook for about 30 seconds, until underside is just golden and still soft.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 128.57kcal
Fat: 2.16g
Saturated Fat: 0.19g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.55g
Carbohydrates: 23.42g
Fiber: 1.54g
Sugar: 1.10g
Protein: 3.62g
Sodium: 115.89mg
Calcium: 12.42mg
Potassium: 97.29mg
Iron: 1.39mg
Vitamin A: 0.31µg
Vitamin C: 0.41mg

Technique Tip for Making Perfect Plain Dosai

To ensure a perfectly crispy dosai, it's crucial to maintain the right temperature of the skillet. If the skillet is too hot, the batter may stick and burn, while if it's too cool, the dosai won't achieve the desired crispiness. A good way to test the temperature is by sprinkling a few drops of water on the skillet. If it sizzles and evaporates quickly, the skillet is ready. Also, remember to spread the batter quickly and evenly to achieve a thin and crispy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making South Indian Crepes

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Use a non-stick pan: Using a non-stick pan will help in making the dosai without sticking and will also make the cleaning process easier.

Make a large batch: Consider making a larger batch of dosai batter and refrigerating the extra for future use to save time on soaking and fermenting the batter again.

Pre-heat the pan: Pre-heating the pan will help in achieving the perfect texture and color of the dosai without spending too much time on each one.

Organize your workspace: Keep all the utensils and ingredients organized and within reach to work efficiently while making the dosai.

Substitute Ingredients For Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes) Recipe

basmati rice - Substitute with long grain white rice: Long grain white rice has a similar texture and flavor to basmati rice, making it a suitable substitute for dosai.
urad dal - Substitute with split black lentils: Split black lentils have a similar texture and flavor to urad dal, making them a good substitute for dosai batter.
parboiled rice - Substitute with short grain rice: Short grain rice can be used as a substitute for parboiled rice in dosai batter, as it provides a similar consistency.
fenugreek seeds - Substitute with mustard seeds: Mustard seeds can be used as a substitute for fenugreek seeds to add a slightly different flavor profile to the dosai batter.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil to add a hint of coconut flavor to the dosai.

Presentation Ideas for Plain Dosai

Elevate the dosai with a unique shape: Instead of the traditional circular dosai, consider using a custom mold to create a visually stunning and unique shape that will impress the judges.
Incorporate vibrant and colorful accompaniments: Add a pop of color to the plate with vibrant chutneys and sauces that not only complement the dosai but also add visual appeal.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the dosai and accompanying components are arranged with precision and symmetry to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Utilize edible flowers and microgreens: Garnish the dish with delicate edible flowers and microgreens to add a touch of elegance and sophistication, enhancing the overall visual impact of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to create artistic drizzles of sauces or infused oils on the plate, adding a visually appealing element while also infusing additional flavors into the dish.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Treat the plate as a canvas and use negative space to create a visually striking presentation, allowing the dosai and accompaniments to stand out and take center stage.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on the dosai or around the plate to add a touch of opulence and sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making South Indian Crepes

Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or mix food and other substances.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
Covered container: A container with a lid used for storing and fermenting food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to facilitate repetitive tasks in the preparation of food.

How To Store and Freeze South Indian Crepes

Allow the dosa batter to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the batter to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The batter may thicken slightly in the refrigerator, so you may need to add a little water to thin it out before making dosas.
To freeze the batter, pour it into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, leaving some room for expansion. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
When ready to use the frozen batter, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give the batter a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients.
If the thawed batter appears too thick, gradually add small amounts of water until it reaches the desired consistency for making dosas.
Note: The texture of the dosas made from frozen batter may be slightly different from those made with freshly fermented batter, but they will still be delicious.
Leftover cooked dosas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover Plain Dosai

The best way to reheat leftover plain dosai is to use a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Heat a small amount of ghee or oil in the pan, then place the leftover dosa in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until crispy and heated through.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the leftover dosa directly on the rack and toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and heated through.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can also reheat leftover dosa in the microwave. Place the dosa on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through.
For a quick and easy breakfast, you can also use leftover dosa as a wrap. Fill the dosa with your favorite scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables, or chutney, then roll it up and enjoy.
If you have a large batch of leftover dosa, you can also freeze them for later use. To freeze, stack the dosa with a piece of parchment paper between each one, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw the dosa in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat using one of the methods above.

Random Fact About Plain Dosai

Dosai (South Indian Crepes) are a popular breakfast dish in South India and are often served with a variety of chutneys and sambar. They are a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, making them a nutritious meal option. Dosai batter is traditionally fermented, which enhances its flavor and aids in digestion. Fermentation also increases the bioavailability of nutrients in the dosai. This process also contributes to the characteristic tangy flavor of dosai. Dosai is a versatile dish and can be enjoyed with various fillings and toppings, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Is Making Plain Dosai at Home Cost-Effective?

This plain dosai recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as rice and dal, are affordable and readily available. The dosai's simplicity and minimal use of ingredients make it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5-$7, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Plain Dosai Healthy or Unhealthy?

The plain dosa recipe, a traditional South Indian crepe, offers a mix of healthy and less healthy aspects. On the positive side, the recipe relies on nutrient-rich ingredients like basmati rice and urad dal, which provide complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. The fermentation process used in preparing the batter enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and promotes better digestion.

However, the recipe also includes elements that could be improved for better health outcomes. The use of white basmati rice and parboiled rice may result in a higher glycemic index, potentially affecting blood sugar levels. Additionally, the recipe calls for vegetable oil for frying, which may contribute to the overall fat content of the dish.

To enhance the nutritional profile of the plain dosa recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate whole grain rice varieties, such as brown basmati rice, to increase the fiber content and lower the glycemic index
Experiment with alternative flours, like quinoa or millet, to boost the protein and nutrient density of the crepes
Opt for healthier cooking oils with higher smoke points and beneficial fatty acid profiles, such as coconut oil or avocado oil
Reduce the amount of oil used in frying by using non-stick pans or exploring alternative cooking methods like baking or steaming
Serve the dosas with nutrient-dense accompaniments, such as fresh vegetables, chutneys made with herbs and spices, or protein-rich lentil-based dishes

Editor's Thoughts on Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes) Recipe

This dosai recipe is a classic and authentic South Indian dish. The combination of basmati rice, urad dal, and parboiled rice creates a flavorful and aromatic batter. The addition of fenugreek seeds adds a subtle hint of bitterness, balancing the overall taste. The fermentation process enhances the dosai's texture and flavor, resulting in a light and crispy crepe. The cooking instructions are precise, ensuring a perfect dosai every time. Overall, this recipe captures the essence of traditional South Indian cuisine and is sure to delight anyone who enjoys this beloved dish.

Enhance Your Plain Dosai (South Indian Crepes) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Coconut chutney: Create a creamy coconut chutney with a hint of tangy tamarind and spicy green chilies to complement the plain dosai.

Tomato sambar: Prepare a flavorful tomato sambar with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices to pair perfectly with the plain dosai.

Potato masala: Whip up a savory potato masala with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to serve alongside the plain dosai.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Plain Dosai

Spicy Chicken Curry: This spicy chicken curry is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that pairs well with rice or naan.

Mango Lassi: Indulge in this refreshing and creamy mango lassi, a traditional Indian drink made with ripe mangoes, yogurt, and a hint of cardamom for a delightful treat.

Vegetable Biryani: Whip up a fragrant and colorful vegetable biryani, featuring a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, layered with fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying one-pot meal.

Coconut Chutney: Complement your dosai with a side of coconut chutney, a creamy and flavorful condiment made with coconut, green chilies, and spices for a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With South Indian Crepes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve on toasted baguette slices for a burst of Italian flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry sauce. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates a perfect harmony of flavors.

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FAQ:

What is the purpose of soaking the rice and dal?

Soaking the rice and dal helps to soften them, making it easier to blend into a smooth batter. It also kick-starts the fermentation process, which is essential for creating the characteristic flavor of dosai.

Why is it important to ferment the batter?

Fermenting the batter not only enhances the flavor but also improves the texture and makes the dosai more digestible. It also increases the nutritional value by breaking down complex nutrients into simpler forms.

Can I make the dosai immediately after blending the batter?

It's best to allow the batter to ferment for at least 12 hours to develop the desired flavor and texture. However, if you're in a rush, you can make dosai after letting the batter rest for a few hours, but the flavor and texture may not be as developed.

How do I know when the dosai is ready to be flipped?

Look for the edges to become dry and start to curl from the pan, and the underside should be golden and still soft. This indicates that it's time to flip the dosai and cook the other side until it's golden and crisp.

Can I store the dosai batter for later use?

Yes, you can store the dosai batter in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to use an airtight container and allow it to come to room temperature before using it.