Pesarattu is a traditional and popular South Indian dish, primarily enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. It’s a savory, crispy pancake made from green moong dal (mung beans), which is known for its high protein content. Unlike the typical rice-based dosas, pesarattu is a great gluten-free and vegan alternative that is packed with nutrients. The dosa is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with chutneys and sambar for a wholesome meal.
Let’s dive into the recipe for making this healthy and delicious pesarattu dosa!
Ingredients:
For the Pesarattu Batter:
- 1 cup whole green moong dal (mung beans)
- 2 tablespoons rice (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1-2 green chilies (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- A pinch of hing (asafoetida)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water (for grinding)
For Serving:
- Coconut chutney
- Ginger chutney
- Sambar (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Soaking the Moong Dal
- Begin by rinsing the green moong dal thoroughly under running water.
- Soak the dal in water for about 4-5 hours or overnight for best results.
- You can also soak a little rice with the moong dal to make the dosa extra crispy, but this step is optional.
Step 2: Grinding the Batter
- Drain the soaked moong dal and transfer it to a blender or wet grinder.
- Add the green chilies, ginger, and cumin seeds to the dal.
- Grind the mixture into a smooth, thick batter, adding water as needed. The batter should not be runny like regular dosa batter but rather thick enough to spread on the pan.
- Once the batter is ready, add salt, hing, and finely chopped onions. Mix well.
Step 3: Cooking the Pesarattu Dosa
- Heat a non-stick or cast iron griddle (tawa) over medium heat. Once hot, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface—if it sizzles, the griddle is ready.
- Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot griddle and gently spread it in a circular motion to form a thin, round dosa.
- Drizzle a little oil around the edges to help the dosa crisp up.
- Cook the dosa for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start turning golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the dosa if you like it crisper, or serve it as is for a soft texture on the inside.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Step 4: Serving Pesarattu Dosa
- Serve the hot pesarattu dosa immediately with coconut chutney, ginger chutney, and a side of sambar if desired.
- Some people also like to fill the dosa with upma (a savory semolina dish) for an extra filling option—this variation is called “Pesarattu Upma.”
Tips for Perfect Pesarattu:
- Consistency of Batter: Ensure the batter is neither too runny nor too thick. The right consistency will allow it to spread easily and cook evenly.
- Crispiness: The addition of rice helps make the dosa crispier, but it’s optional. If you prefer a soft dosa, skip the rice.
- Spices and Flavor: You can adjust the spices by adding a pinch of black pepper, cumin powder, or garam masala to enhance the flavor.
- Resting the Batter: While the batter does not need to ferment like regular dosa batter, letting it rest for 30 minutes can help in better fermentation, yielding a fluffier texture.
Health Benefits of Pesarattu:
- High in Protein: Pesarattu is rich in plant-based protein due to the green moong dal, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
- Gluten-Free: Made with moong dal and rice (optional), it’s perfect for anyone on a gluten-free diet.
- Low in Fat: It’s a healthier alternative to traditional dosas made with rice and urad dal.
- Packed with Nutrients: Moong dal is also a good source of dietary fiber, iron, and B vitamins, making it a nutritious choice for breakfast.
Conclusion:
Pesarattu dosa is a simple yet delicious South Indian dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich breakfast or a satisfying snack, this recipe is perfect for any time of day. With its crispy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a favorite in your kitchen!
Enjoy this nutritious and tasty dosa with your favorite chutney or sambar, and feel good knowing you’re eating something wholesome!
