Set Dosa

Set Dosa, a beloved delicacy from the southern parts of India, is more than just a breakfast item; it’s a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. This soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy dish has a unique charm that makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice (preferably parboiled or idli rice)
• 1/2 cup urad dal
• 1/4 cup poha (flattened rice) for extra softness
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Preparation:

1. Soaking: Wash and soak the rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds together in water for at least 4-6 hours. Soak the poha separately for about 15 minutes before grinding.
2. Grinding: Drain the soaked ingredients and grind them to a smooth batter, adding water as needed. Mix the poha into the batter during the grinding process.
3. Fermentation: Transfer the batter to a large bowl, cover it, and let it ferment overnight or for about 8-12 hours, depending on the ambient temperature. The batter should rise and become slightly frothy.
4. Cooking: Heat a non-stick tawa or a flat griddle on medium heat. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the tawa and spread it gently to form a small, thick circle. Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges. Cover and cook until the dosa is cooked through and slightly golden on the bottom. There’s no need to flip the dosa.

Serving Suggestions

• Coconut Chutney: A creamy chutney made from fresh coconut, green chilies, and tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves.
• Sambar: A lentil-based vegetable stew flavored with tamarind and a blend of aromatic spices.
• Potato Palya: A mildly spiced potato curry that adds a comforting richness to the meal.
• Chutney Pudi: A dry chutney powder that can be sprinkled over the dosa for an extra kick of flavor.

Health Benefits

The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, making them easier to digest. The combination of rice and urad dal provides a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins, while the poha adds additional iron and vitamins.

Variations

• Masala : Stuffed with a spicy potato filling, similar to the masala dosa but in a set dosa form.
• Rava : Made with semolina (rava) instead of rice, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
• Paneer : Filled with a spiced paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixture, adding a rich and creamy twist.
• Vegetable : Incorporating finely chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, and bell peppers into the batter for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese : A modern twist that involves adding grated cheese on top of the dosa while it cooks, making it a hit among kids and cheese lovers.

Tips

• Fermentation: Ensure the batter is well-fermented. In colder climates, you can place the batter in a warm oven (turned off) to aid fermentation.
• Consistency: The batter should be slightly thicker than regular dosa batter but still pourable.
• Cooking Temperature: Cook on medium heat to ensure the dosa cooks through without burning on the outside.
• Covering While Cooking: Covering the dosa while it cooks helps in making it soft and fluffy.

Pairing Beverages

• Filter Coffee: The robust and aromatic South Indian filter coffee is a perfect match, balancing the mild flavors of Set Dosa.
• Buttermilk: A cooling glass of buttermilk, often spiced with ginger, curry leaves, and green chilies, provides a refreshing contrast.
• Fresh Fruit Juice: Mango or orange juice complements the meal with its natural sweetness and tang.

Set Dosa is a testament to the diversity and richness of South Indian cuisine. Its unique texture, delightful flavor, and versatility make it a cherished dish that continues to win hearts across the globe.