Adai Recipe – High Protein Lentil Crepes
An Authentic South Indian Breakfast Delight
Adai is a traditional and wholesome breakfast dish from Tamil Nadu, rich in protein and flavor. These crispy, savory lentil crepes, made with a mix of rice and various lentils, are not only packed with nutrition but also offer a burst of taste with every bite. Perfect for breakfast or dinner, Adai is an ideal tiffin dish that brings together the goodness of legumes and rice, providing a hearty start to your day. These protein-rich crepes are easy to make with just a little preparation, and they’ll surely make your mornings more delightful.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are what make this dish so special. Use the best quality of each for maximum flavor and nutritional benefits.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (short-grained red rice or boiled rice) | 1/2 cup |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chillies, chopped | 2 pieces |
| Ginger, chopped | 1-inch piece |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Oil, for drizzling | As needed |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Adai at home:
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Soak the Rice and Lentils: Begin by soaking the rice, Arhar dal (split Toor dal), and Chana dal (Bengal gram dal) together in water for about 5 hours. This step is important for softening the grains and making the crepes crisp and easy to spread.
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Blend the Batter: After 5 hours, drain the soaked rice and lentils. Add them into the tall jar of a Zodiac Mixer Grinder. Also, add the chopped green chillies, ginger, dry red chilli, and salt to the jar. Start blending, adding water little by little, to form a thick batter. The batter should be thick enough to drop in dollops. Continue grinding until the mixture is smooth and slightly coarse.
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Prepare the Batter: Once your batter is ready, transfer it to a bowl. Stir in the finely chopped onions and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Mix everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
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Cook the Adai: Heat an iron skillet (or non-stick pan) over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, lightly grease it with oil. Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of the pan. Spread it out in a circular motion, forming a thin crepe. Drizzle about a teaspoon of oil around the edges and on top of the Adai.
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Flip and Cook the Other Side: Let the Adai cook for about 1 minute, until the edges begin to crisp up. Carefully flip it over and cook for another 2 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your hot Adai immediately with a dollop of butter, jaggery, and a tangy Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney for a delightful, flavorful experience.
Serving Suggestions
Adai is traditionally served with butter and jaggery, making it a deliciously sweet and savory combination. For an extra layer of flavor, pair it with a Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney that perfectly complements the savory taste of the crepes.
Nutritional Benefits
This Adai recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients. The combination of rice, Arhar dal, and Chana dal provides a great source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent option for vegetarians. The inclusion of onions and spices like ginger and asafoetida adds depth of flavor while supporting digestion.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Adai
- Consistency of Batter: The batter should be thick but spreadable. If it’s too runny, the crepes may not hold together. Add water gradually to get the desired consistency.
- Crispness: For extra crispy Adai, make sure to use medium heat and cook it on both sides until golden brown. A slightly more oil can help achieve the perfect crispiness.
- Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to the batter for a variation, such as grated carrots or spinach, to make it even more nutritious.
With its combination of lentils, rice, and spices, this Adai Recipe is the perfect high-protein breakfast or dinner option that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy this crispy, savory delight with family and friends!
