India (South): Masala Dosa

The Dosa is a thin, savory crepe originating from South India. Made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, it is often served crispy, rolled around a spicy filling of mashed potatoes (Masala), and accompanied by coconut chutney and Sambar (vegetable stew).

Ingredients

ComponentQuantityNotes
Dosa BatterReady-made or homemadeRice and lentil batter (must be fermented).
Potatoes3 largeBoiled, peeled, and mashed.
Yellow Onion1 mediumFinely chopped.
Ginger1 tspGrated.
Green Chilies1-2Minced.
Mustard Seeds1 tspFor tempering.
Curry Leaves5-6Fresh.
Turmeric Powder1/2 tspFor color.
Oil2 tbsp
WaterAs needed
Coconut Chutney & SambarFor serving.Traditional accompaniments.

Instructions

  1. Make the Potato Masala: Heat oil in a pan. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add the curry leaves, minced green chilies, grated ginger, and chopped onion. Sautรฉ until the onion is soft.
  2. Season the Filling: Add the turmeric powder and the mashed potatoes to the pan. Season with salt and mix well. Add a splash of water to loosen the filling slightly. Set the Masala aside and keep warm.
  3. Cook the Dosa: Heat a non-stick griddle or tawa until very hot. Lightly grease it and reduce the heat to medium. Pour a ladleful of Dosa batter onto the center of the griddle. Quickly spread the batter outwards in a spiral motion using the back of the ladle to form a thin, large circle (a crepe).
  4. Crisp and Fill: Drizzle a little oil around the edges of the Dosa. Cook until the bottom is golden brown and crispy and the edges curl up. Spread a thin layer of the potato Masala filling down the center of the Dosa.
  5. Serve: Fold the Dosa in half or roll it up. Serve immediately with Sambar and coconut chutney.

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