Pesarattu – Indian Coconut and Lentil Snack
Pesarattu is a popular Indian snack that is both hearty and flavorful. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or brunch dish, this delightful creation blends green lentils, rice, and a variety of spices, offering a nutritious, vegan, and protein-packed alternative to traditional snacks. The addition of fresh coconut and coriander leaves brings a distinct fragrance, while the crispy texture from the griddle gives it that irresistible crunch. Serve it with a side of fresh coconut-coriander chutney for a complete experience. Perfect for a busy morning or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green lentil (soaked for 2 hours) | 1 cup |
| Raw rice | 1/2 cup |
| Green chilies | 5 (adjust to taste) |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves | 3/4 cup |
| Mashed potatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Curry leaves | 8 leaves |
| Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1606.3 kcal |
| Fat Content | 116 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 25 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 115.9 g |
| Fiber | 34.8 g |
| Sugar | 11.6 g |
| Protein | 31.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Lentil and Rice Mix:
- Drain the soaked green lentils and rice. In a blender or food processor, combine the lentils, rice, green chilies, and salt to taste. Grind until you get a smooth batter, adding a little water if needed to achieve a semi-thick consistency.
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Prepare the Batter:
- Transfer the ground mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add in the mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, curry leaves, and fresh coriander leaves. Use your fingers (with a little oil to prevent sticking) to gently mix everything together until a uniform batter forms. The consistency should be semi-solid and easy to spread on the griddle.
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Griddle Preparation:
- Heat a flat iron dosa tava or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, lightly smear the surface with 1/2 teaspoon of oil.
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Cooking the Pesarattu:
- Take a ladle of the prepared batter and pour it onto the griddle. Using the back of the ladle, spread the batter into a round, flat shape similar to a dosa. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.
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Flipping the Pesarattu:
- Once the bottom side is golden and crisp, carefully flip the pesarattu to the other side. Add another 1/4 teaspoon of oil around the edges. Let the second side cook for another 2 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy.
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Serving:
- Once both sides are cooked to perfection, remove the pesarattu from the griddle. Serve hot with a side of fresh coriander-coconut chutney for added flavor.
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Enjoy Your Snack!
- Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Pesarattu with your favorite chutney or as a stand-alone snack. It’s perfect for a quick meal or an afternoon treat!
Tips for Making the Perfect Pesarattu
- Soaking the Lentils: Ensure the lentils are soaked for at least 2 hours before blending. This softens them, making the batter smoother and the texture of the pesarattu crispier.
- Consistency of Batter: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when ladled onto the griddle. If it’s too thin, it may spread too much and not hold together well.
- Griddle Heat: Ensure the griddle is hot enough to form a crispy crust. If it’s not hot enough, the batter may stick or become too soft.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The green chilies can be adjusted according to your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or omit them entirely.
- Coconut Chutney: Pairing your pesarattu with a fresh coconut-coriander chutney enhances the flavor. You can also serve it with tamarind chutney or mint chutney for variety.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pesarattu – Indian Coconut and Lentil Snack is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils, rice, and mashed potatoes provides a hearty, filling snack, perfect for those who prefer plant-based meals. With its crispy exterior and soft interior, it’s a versatile dish that can be eaten as breakfast, lunch, or a mid-afternoon snack. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and loaded with protein and fiber—making it a healthy, satisfying option for everyone.
So, gather your ingredients, get the griddle ready, and treat yourself to a warm, crispy Pesarattu that will leave you craving more!
