homemade masala dosa

• up poha (flattened rice)
• Water (for soaking and grinding)
• Salt (to taste)
• Oil or ghee (for cooking)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dosa Batter

1. Begin by rinsing the rice, urad dal, and poha separately under running water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed rice, urad dal, and poha.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and let them soak for at least 4-6 hours. This helps in softening and fermenting the batter.

Step 2: Grind the Batter

1. After soaking, drain the water from the soaked ingredients.
2. In a grinder or blender, add the soaked rice, urad dal, and poha. Start by adding a little water and grind to a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add more water as needed and continue grinding until the batter is smooth and slightly thick. The batter should have a pancake batter consistency.
4. Add salt to the batter and mix well.

Step 3: Ferment the Batter

1. Transfer the batter to a large container or bowl, leaving room for expansion during fermentation.
2. Cover the container with a clean cloth or lid and let it ferment in a warm place for about 8-12 hours or until the batter doubles in volume. The fermentation process is essential for the characteristic flavor and texture of dosas.

Step 4: Make the Dosas

1. Once the batter is fermented, give it a gentle stir to incorporate air.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or dosa pan over medium heat. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the pan – if it sizzles, the pan is ready.
3. Grease the pan lightly with oil or ghee using a paper towel.
4. Take a ladleful of dosa batter and pour it in the center of the pan.
5. Quickly spread the batter in a circular motion using the back of the ladle to create a thin crepe. The thinner you spread, the crispier the dosa will be.
6. Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges of the dosa.
7. Cook until the dosa turns golden and crispy, usually for about 1-2 minutes on medium heat.
8. Gently lift the edges using a spatula and fold the dosa in half or roll it into a cylinder.

Step 5: Serve

1. Repeat the process to make more dosas with the remaining batter.
2. Serve the dosas hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any preferred side dish.

Conclusion: Congratulations! You've successfully made delicious South Indian dosas from scratch. Enjoy these crispy, flavorful crepes as a delightful breakfast or anytime snack.