Millet Lentil Dosa
Description:
Millet Lentil Dosa is a wholesome and nutritious alternative to the traditional dosa. This gluten-free and vegan recipe combines the goodness of millets and lentils, making it a perfect option for those looking to add more fiber, protein, and essential minerals to their diet. Served with coconut chutney, pickle, or a dollop of ghee, this crispy and flavorful dosa makes for an excellent breakfast or a light dinner.
Background:
Dosa, a beloved staple of South Indian cuisine, is traditionally made using rice and lentils. However, this Millet Lentil Dosa version offers a healthier twist while maintaining the classic dosa's texture and flavor. Millets have been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries, known for their resilience in dry conditions and high nutritional value. This recipe brings together ancient grains with modern dietary preferences, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals and those looking for a nutritious meal.
Health Benefits:
- Millets: Rich in fiber, essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, and antioxidants. Millets are known for their role in managing blood sugar levels and improving heart health.
- Lentils: A powerhouse of plant-based protein and fiber, lentils aid in digestion, support heart health, and provide sustained energy.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its healthy fats, coconut oil supports brain function and improves cholesterol levels.
- Fenugreek (Methi): This small but mighty seed is great for digestion, helps in controlling blood sugar, and is loaded with antioxidants.
Millets are ancient grains that have been cultivated for thousands of years, primarily in Asia and Africa. These small, hardy grains are not only drought-resistant but also nutrient-dense, making them a staple in traditional diets across various cultures. There are several varieties of millets, including foxtail, pearl, barnyard, kodo, and finger millet, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
In recent years, millets have gained popularity for their health benefits and sustainability. They are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Millets are also packed with essential nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and B vitamins, supporting heart health, bone strength, and energy production. Additionally, millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent grain alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Incorporating millets into your diet through recipes like Millet Lentil Dosa is a delicious way to boost your intake of these super grains while enjoying their subtle nutty flavor and versatility.
Experience the perfect blend of health and flavor with this crispy Millet Lentil Dosa. Made from nutrient-rich millets and protein-packed lentils, this gluten-free dosa is a wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Topped with onions, green chilies, and cilantro, and served with coconut chutney or a dollop of ghee, it's the ultimate guilt-free indulgence for breakfast or dinner!
- 1 cup Millets (any variety – foxtail, barnyard, or kodo)
- 1 cup Urad Dal (split black gram)
- 2 teaspoon Fenugreek seeds (Methi)
- Water (for soaking and grinding)
- 2 tablespoons Rice flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 2 Medium Onions, finely chopped
- 5 Green chilies, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh Cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Coconut oil (for cooking)
- Ghee (For serving)
- Soak the Millets and Lentils: In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of millets and ½ cup of urad dal. Add 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds. Cover with enough water and let it soak overnight (or for at least 6-8 hours).
- Prepare the Batter: Drain the soaked millets and lentils. Transfer them to a blender and grind to a smooth paste, adding water as needed. The batter should resemble traditional dosa batter – neither too thick nor too runny.
- Transfer the batter to a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of rice flour, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and salt to taste. Mix well and set aside for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Onion Mixture: Finely chop 1 large onion, 5 green chilies, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Set aside for later use.
- Cook the Dosa: Heat a dosa tawa (griddle) on medium heat. Once hot, grease it lightly with coconut oil.
- Pour a ladleful of the dosa batter onto the tawa and spread it thin in a circular motion. Sprinkle some of the chopped onion, chili, and cilantro mixture on top.
- Drizzle a little coconut oil around the edges of the dosa.
- Let it cook until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown.
- Flip the dosa and cook the other side for a minute until crisp.
- Serve:Serve hot with coconut chutney, pickle, or ghee and dry chutney powder.
Enjoy the crispy and flavorful Millet Lentil Dosa, packed with nutrition and bursting with flavor!
I love traveling, cooking, and reading. This blog is a reflection of my passion for cooking. Food is a representation of culture and I have tried to assimilate foods from different cultures across the world. I am an Indian by birth who moved to the USA 20 years back. I hope my recipes and articles bring new experiences and joy to the readers. Please share your comments and feedback.