Instant Masoor Dal Dosa

Lately I had been seeing this recipe all over social media. I was curious to try this out. Given this is an instant recipe (one of my favorites), minimal ingredients and high in protein given the dal as the main ingredient and of course a good looking dosa too, I could not wait to try this out! I was a bit skeptical given usually one needs a bit of rice mixed in typically to ensure it does not stick to the pan, but I was so wrong. I was amazed how well it turned out! It tastes like an adai (mixed lentil dosa) which usually requires soaking the dal, rice and is not an instant recipe. This one definitely has a big plus as this does not require any prior planning, soaking etc.

You will need:

Basic ingredients:

1 cup masoor dal (red lentils, rinsed and drained)

1/2-1 cup peeled and diced carrots (about 2 small carrots)

2-3 red chillies

2 tsp cumin seeds

2 cups of water (adjust water based on consistency of batter)

1-2 tsp salt per taste

Toppings (optional)

chopped onions

chopped cilantro

Dosa making:

1 tsp oil per dosa (vegetable/canola)

Method:

In a blender, add the masoor dal, carrots, red chillies, cumin seeds and water. I usually add 1 cup of water initially and then add the rest of the water later to adjust consistency. Blend it to a fine consistency to form the batter. Adjust consistency by adding more water and add the salt per taste.

On a hot pan (test it by splashing some water, it should bubble up), pour the batter with a ladle and spread it to make it into a round dosa shape. Add the optional toppings. Sprinkle oil around the dosa. Cover the dosa with a lid. Let it cook for a few minutes. Take off the lid. When you start seeing a brown color on the sides and the dosa lifts easily from the pan, it is time to take it out! One optional step is to flip it on the other side. I don't usually do that, since with the lid, it cooks pretty well anyway. But I would leave that up to you.

Enjoy this yummy dosa as it is or with any sides like chutney, podi or pickles! It goes well with even yogurt (vegetarian or vegan)!