Moringa Dosa Recipe: A Nutrient-Packed Delight

Moringa, also known as the “drumstick tree,” is a powerhouse of nutrients and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, Moringa leaves are considered a superfood. One creative and delicious way to incorporate Moringa into your diet is by making Moringa Dosa — a variation of the classic South Indian dosa that adds a healthy twist.

Not only does the name Moringa Dosa sound intriguing, but the flavor and nutritional value make it an irresistible option for anyone seeking a tasty and healthy meal. This dosa is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a boost to your overall health, making it the perfect breakfast or snack option.

Ingredients:

For the dosa batter:

• 1 cup of rice (preferably parboiled rice)
• 1/4 cup of split urad dal (black gram)
• 1/4 cup of moong dal (yellow split gram)
• 1 tablespoon of Moringa powder (or fresh Moringa leaves, finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon of asafetida (hing)
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as required for the batter consistency
• Oil or ghee (clarified butter) for cooking

For the chutney (optional):

• 1/2 cup of grated coconut
• 2 green chilies
• A small piece of ginger
• A handful of fresh coriander leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Water as required

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. Soak the Rice and Dal: Rinse the rice and both dals (urad dal and moong dal) thoroughly and soak them separately in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step ensures that the grains soften and ferment properly.
2. Grinding the Ingredients: Drain the soaked rice and dals and transfer them to a wet grinder or a food processor. Add a little water and grind them into a smooth batter, similar to the consistency of traditional dosa batter.
3. Adding Moringa: Once the batter is ready, add the Moringa powder or fresh Moringa leaves to the mixture. If you’re using fresh leaves, chop them finely and blend them into the batter. Add cumin seeds, asafetida, and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
4. Fermentation: Cover the batter and let it ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours. The fermentation process is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor of the dosa. You’ll notice the batter becoming slightly bubbly and fluffy once it’s ready.

Step 2: Preparing the Chutney (Optional)

1. Blend the Chutney Ingredients: While the batter ferments, prepare a fresh chutney to complement the Moringa Dosa. Combine the grated coconut, green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, and salt in a blender. Add a small amount of water to get a smooth paste.
2. Optional Tempering: For an added flavor boost, you can temper the chutney by heating a small amount of oil in a pan, adding mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafetida. Pour this tempering over the chutney and mix well.

Step 3: Cooking the Moringa Dosa

1. Preheat the Pan: Heat a flat griddle or non-stick pan on medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease it with a little oil or ghee using a kitchen towel or brush.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour a ladleful of the fermented Moringa batter onto the hot pan. Spread it in a circular motion to form a thin, round dosa.
3. Cook the Dosa: Allow the dosa to cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. You can drizzle a little oil or ghee along the edges for extra crispiness.
4. Flip and Cook (Optional): If you prefer a crispier dosa, you can flip it and cook the other side for an additional minute. However, traditional dosas are usually cooked only on one side.
5. Serve Hot: Once the dosa is golden and crisp, remove it from the pan and serve immediately with your choice of chutney or sambar.

Health Benefits of Moringa Dosa

• Rich in Nutrients: Moringa leaves are a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and E, along with iron, calcium, and potassium, all of which contribute to overall well-being.
• Boosts Immunity: The antioxidants in Moringa leaves help combat oxidative stress, improve immune function, and reduce inflammation.
• Supports Digestion: The high fiber content in Moringa aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
• Low-Calorie: This dosa is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy option for those mindful of their calorie intake.

Conclusion

Moringa Dosa is a delicious fusion of health and taste, providing all the goodness of Moringa in a savory, crispy form. Whether you’re looking to try something new for breakfast or want to enjoy a wholesome snack, Moringa Dosa is the perfect choice. With its easy preparation and numerous health benefits, this dish will not only satisfy your cravings but also nourish your body.