how to make indian masala dosa

Ah, Indian masala dosa! It’s a popular South Indian dish that consists of a crispy fermented crepe filled with a spiced potato filling. Here’s a recipe to help you make it:

Ingredients:

For the dosa batter:

• 2 cups of rice (any variety)
• 1/2 cup of urad dal (skinned black lentils)
• 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds (optional)
• Water (for soaking and grinding)
• Salt to taste

For the potato filling:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• A few curry leaves (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the chutney and sambar (optional):

• Coconut chutney (grated coconut, green chilies, ginger, and salt blended together)
• Sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew)

Instructions:

1. Dosa Batter:
   • Wash the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds (if using) separately and soak them in water for at least 4 hours.
   • Drain the water and grind the rice, dal, and fenugreek seeds together to form a smooth batter. Add water as needed.
   • Transfer the batter to a large bowl, add salt, and mix well. Allow it to ferment overnight or for at least 8 hours.
   • After fermentation, the batter is ready to use.
2. Potato Filling:
   • Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves (if using).
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
   • Add turmeric powder and mashed potatoes. Mix well and cook for a few minutes. Add salt to taste.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Making Masala Dosa:
   • Heat a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Ensure that the pan is hot.
   • Pour a ladleful of dosa batter onto the center of the pan and quickly spread it in a circular motion to form a thin crepe.
   • Drizzle a little oil around the edges and on top of the dosa.
   • Cook until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
   • Place a portion of the potato filling on one side of the dosa and fold it over.
   • Gently remove the dosa from the pan and serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar (if desired).

There you go! Enjoy your homemade Indian masala dosa. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.