Dosa (Indian pancakes filled with potatoes)

Dosa with potato filling and aromatic sauces

If you are looking for an enticing recipe that combines unmistakable textures and flavors, you have come to the right place! Dosa, a thin and crispy pancake from India, is perfect for being stuffed with a delicious mix of potatoes and spices. This recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you to the heart of Indian gastronomy. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the filling:
- 2 starchy potatoes (approximately 300 g)
- 2 sweet potatoes (approximately 300 g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 red chilies, finely chopped
- 1 cm of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 ½ teaspoons of black mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime (juice)
- 4 green onions, chopped
- A few leaves of coriander, chopped

For the batter:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (approximately 120 g)
- 1 cup wheat flour (approximately 120 g)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 ½ teaspoons black mustard seeds
- Olive oil, for frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
1. Wash the starchy and sweet potatoes well under cold water, removing any impurities.
2. Prick them all over with a fork (this will help them cook evenly and release steam).
3. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and place the potatoes on a baking tray.
4. Bake for 40-60 minutes until fully cooked and soft inside. Test them with a fork to ensure they are perfect.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. Once the potatoes have cooled, peel them and mash them in a large bowl until they become a smooth paste.
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped chili, grated ginger, mustard seeds, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook the ingredients for about 2-3 minutes until the aromas start to release.
4. Pour the flavored mixture over the potatoes, carefully mixing to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add the lime juice, green onions, and chopped coriander. Adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. The filling is ready!

Step 3: Preparing the batter
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour and wheat flour.
2. Add the baking soda, mustard seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Gradually add water (approximately 400 ml) and mix until you achieve a batter consistency similar to pancake batter – not too thin but not too thick either.

Step 4: Cooking the dosa
1. Grease a non-stick pan with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Pour about ¾ ladle of batter into the pan and tilt the pan to evenly cover the entire surface.
3. Cook the pancake until it starts to form small craters on the surface (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the potato filling to one half of the pancake, gently spread it, and then roll the pancake.
5. Transfer the pancake to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter and filling.

Serving
Serve the dosa warm, alongside yogurt mixed with fresh mint and lime slices. You can also add chutney for an extra flavor boost. This combination of textures and flavors will surely captivate you!

Nutritional information
This recipe is rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals due to the potatoes and spices used. Additionally, the mint and lime content provides antioxidants, while yogurt offers beneficial probiotics for digestion.

A brief history
Dosa is a traditional pancake known for its versatility. Its origins are deeply rooted in culinary culture, being popular for breakfast or as a snack in various forms. Today, it is appreciated worldwide for its refined taste and adaptability with different fillings.

Helpful tips
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables in the filling, such as carrots or peas, to add diversity.
- Olive oil: Use high-quality olive oil for a more intense flavor.
- Serving: Dosa can also be served with different chutneys, such as mango or mint chutney, to enrich the tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute wheat flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour, but the texture may vary.

2. How can I store the dosas for later?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them on a lightly greased pan to bring them back to life.

3. What drinks pair well with dosa?
Fresh lemonade or mint tea are excellent choices that complement the strong flavors of the dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking. Remember, cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to explore, experiment, and, most importantly, enjoy! Bon appétit!