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South Indian cuisine is known its hearty and comforting dishes that can be enjoyed for all three meals of the day and dosa is one such delicacy. Traditionally, made with rice, this crispy crepe is enjoyed with sambar and coconut chutney. But if you are looking for some innovative alternatives that are also healthier, skip rice and incorporate some healthy ingredients like oats, lentils and millets. Here are some rice-free dosas that are both healthy and satisfying, ideal for a delicious and nutritious dinner. They are sure to become crowd pleasers at the dining table.
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Urad Jowar Dosa
This dosa is prepared from jowar (also known as sorghum) and urad dal, making it both vegan and gluten-free. Jowar is rich in protein and antioxidants, adding nutritional value to the dosa. Soaked and ground with chana dal and methi (fenugreek), the batter is fermented for a flavourful and crispy dosa. This combination makes for a hearty dinner when paired with a warm bowl of rasam or chutneys.
Semolina Dosa
This quick and easy dosa uses semolina for a distinctive, crispy texture. Unlike traditional dosa batter, which requires hours of fermentation, semolina dosa is made instantly by combining semolina and plain flour with water to create a thin, pourable batter. The dosa is best served with spicy chutneys or vegetable kurma, perfect for a no-fuss dinner option.
Bajra Moong Dal Dosa
If you are looking for a protein-packed option, this dosa combines bajra or pearl millet with moong dal and urad dal. This special batter results in a crisp dosa that resembles restaurant-style dosas without any rice. This millet provides fibre and essential minerals, while moong dal adds a good dose of protein, making it a wholesome meal option. It is best paired with coconut chutney.
Cucumber Dosa
It is a refreshing take on dosa, combining cucumber with soaked lentils and spices. There’s no fermentation needed, so it's quick to prepare. The grated cucumber adds a slight sweetness and moisture, creating a soft, light dosa that is ideal to enjoy with green chutney for dinner.
Oats Poha Dosa
This crispy dosa made with oats and poha is another healthy alternative, with oats adding fibre and poha lending a smooth texture to the batter. To prepare the dish, ground oats and poha with semolina and add spices to enhance the dish. The batter is slightly thick, creating crispy dosas. These dosas are great when accompanied by tomato or coconut chutney.
Moong Sprouts Dosa
Packed with protein and fibre, moong sprouts dosa is a fantastic option for a nutritious dinner. Made with sprouted green moong beans, this dosa is similar to the traditional pesarattu dosa. This dosa is often topped with finely chopped onions and can be served as is or with spicy chutney for an energising meal.
Ragi Set Dosa
Ragi or finger millet, gives this dosa a unique colour and a slightly nutty taste. Set dosa is a popular choice in Karnataka and is usually thicker and served as a stack of three small dosas. The batter is made by grinding soaked ragi with urad dal and left to ferment, creating a soft yet crispy-bottom dosa. It is served with chutney or sambar for a wholesome dinner.