North Arcot Special Thavalai Dosai Recipe
Description
Thavalai Dosai, a delectable dish hailing from the North Arcot District of Tamil Nadu, is a unique variation of the traditional Indian pancake, cooked in a small wok called ‘Appachatti’. The name “Thavalai” translates to “vessel” in Tamil, a reference to the special cooking technique using a small round pan. This gluten-free and vegan dish is light on the stomach, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying breakfast. What’s particularly intriguing about Thavalai Dosai is that it doesn’t require any fermentation, making the preparation process much quicker. With minimal ingredients and a distinct preparation method, this dosa offers a delightful combination of crisp edges and soft, flavorful centers.
Perfect for those seeking a simple yet nutritious breakfast, Thavalai Dosai pairs wonderfully with Red Chilli Coconut Chutney and Mixed Vegetable Korma for a well-rounded meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Vegan
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (raw) | 1 cup |
| White Urad Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3, ground to a fine paste |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | To grease the pan |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Soak the Rice and Dal:
Begin by washing the rice and soaking it in water for about 30 minutes. Similarly, wash the urad dal and soak it separately for the same duration. -
Prepare the Batter:
Drain the rice and grind it to a fine batter. Add little water at a time to achieve a thick, smooth consistency. Do the same for the urad dal, ensuring the batter is smooth. Once both the rice and urad dal batters are ready, combine them in a large mixing bowl. -
Add Flavorings and Rest:
To the combined batter, whisk in the yogurt, the ground red chilli paste, asafoetida, and salt. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Allow the batter to rest for 30 minutes to an hour. This resting period enhances the flavors and helps the batter to settle. -
Heat the Appachatti (Small Wok):
Place the Appachatti or a small wok on medium heat. Once it is heated, grease it evenly with sesame oil using a brush. Ensure that the entire surface, including the edges, is lightly coated with oil. -
Cook the Thavalai Dosai:
Pour a ladle of the batter into the center of the hot pan. Immediately hold the pan by both handles and swirl it around so that the batter spreads and coats both the base and the sides evenly. Cover the pan and cook on low heat until you notice that the center of the dosa is cooked, and the edges are beautifully browned and crisp. -
Serve:
Once cooked, gently remove the Thavalai Dosai from the pan using a spatula. Serve it hot and crispy. For the next dosa, sprinkle some water on the Appachatti and grease it again with oil before pouring in the batter. -
Enjoy:
Serve your North Arcot Special Thavalai Dosai with Red Chilli Coconut Chutney and a side of Mixed Vegetable Korma for a complete and satisfying breakfast.
This North Arcot Special Thavalai Dosai is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, combining simple ingredients with a flavorful and satisfying result. Its unique preparation method, free from fermentation, makes it a convenient option for busy mornings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or exploring the rich culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu, this recipe delivers both taste and authenticity.
