Goan Shepeche Polle Recipe
The Goan Shepeche Polle is a delightful and traditional recipe from the coastal region of Goa. Resembling the popular South Indian dosa, this unique dish features the aromatic and flavorful combination of fresh dill leaves, sweet jaggery, and grated coconut. Known for its tangy taste from the dill and its natural sweetness from the jaggery, Shepeche Polle is a beloved breakfast option in Goan households. A personal favorite of mine, this recipe has been passed down through generations and is something I’ve cherished making for many years.
Dill leaves, a key ingredient in this recipe, have remarkable medicinal properties. Rich in calcium, they help boost the immune system and protect against bone degeneration, making this dish not only delicious but also healthful. This comforting, savory-sweet pancake is perfect for a South Indian-style breakfast and is sure to impress your family and friends. Pair it with a tangy Tomato Onion Chutney for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Black Urad Dal (Whole) | 1/4 cup |
| Dill leaves, chopped | 1 cup |
| Coconut, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Jaggery, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | For cooking |
Preparation Time:
- Soaking: 4-5 hours
- Fermentation: 6-8 hours
- Total Preparation: 240 minutes (soaking + fermentation)
Cooking Time:
- Cooking: 30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Soak the Rice and Urad Dal:
Begin by soaking the rice and urad dal (black gram) in water for about 4 to 5 hours. After soaking, drain the water completely. -
Grind the Batter:
In a grinder, combine the soaked rice and urad dal. Add a little water at a time to help grind the mixture into a smooth, thick batter, similar to dosa batter consistency. Once done, transfer the batter to a large bowl, cover it, and allow it to rest and ferment for about 6 to 8 hours in a warm place. -
Prepare the Dill Paste:
While the batter is fermenting, take fresh dill leaves, grated coconut, and jaggery. Grind them together with a small amount of water until a smooth paste is formed. The sweet and tangy combination of jaggery and dill will provide the unique flavor to the pancakes. -
Mix the Dill Paste into the Batter:
After the batter has fermented, stir in the dill paste mixture you prepared earlier. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the flavors evenly. Add salt to taste and mix again. -
Cook the Shepeche Polle:
Heat a non-stick skillet or a griddle over medium heat and grease it lightly with ghee. Once hot, pour a ladleful of the batter onto the skillet. Spread the batter in a circular motion, forming a thin, even layer. -
Drizzle Ghee and Cook:
Drizzle a little ghee over the edges of the pancake to enhance flavor and help it crisp up. Let the Shepeche Polle cook until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. Once done, carefully flip it over to cook the other side for a few more minutes until both sides are browned. -
Serve:
Remove the Shepeche Polle from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter. Serve these delicious Goan pancakes hot with a side of Tomato Onion Chutney for an authentic Goan breakfast experience.
Tips for the Best Shepeche Polle:
- Fermentation Tip: If you live in a colder climate, you can place the batter in an oven with the light on to provide the warmth needed for fermentation.
- Consistency of Batter: Ensure that the batter is neither too thick nor too runny. It should spread easily on the skillet but not be too watery.
- Dill Variation: For a more robust dill flavor, increase the amount of dill leaves according to your preference.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with chutneys like Tomato Onion Chutney or Coconut Chutney to balance the flavors of the sweet and savory pancake.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving):
- Calories: 130-150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Proteins: 4-6g
- Fat: 4-5g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
The Goan Shepeche Polle Recipe is an unforgettable combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a truly unique dish that reflects the essence of Goan cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast or want to try something new, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and make your mornings feel extra special. Enjoy!
