Welcome back to our kitchen, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of healthy and delicious South Indian cuisine with a twist. We’re making Kodo Millet Dosa, a nutritious and tasty alternative to the traditional rice dosa. Kodo millet, also known as Varagu in Tamil, is a small, gluten-free grain that’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s perfect for those looking to incorporate more wholesome grains into their diet. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the batter:

• 1 cup Kodo millet (Varagu)
• 1/4 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For the dosa:

• Ghee or oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Rinse and Soak:
   • Rinse the Kodo millet thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
   • In a large bowl, combine the rinsed millet, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds.
   • Add enough water to cover the mixture and let it soak for 4-6 hours or overnight.
2. Grind the Batter:
   • Drain the soaked mixture and transfer it to a blender or wet grinder.
   • Add a little water and grind until you get a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to that of traditional dosa batter.
   • Transfer the batter to a large bowl and add salt to taste. Mix well.
3. Fermentation:
   • Cover the bowl with a lid or a clean cloth and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours or overnight. The batter should rise and become slightly bubbly.

Step 2: Make the Dosa

1. Heat the Griddle:
   • Heat a non-stick or cast-iron griddle (tawa) over medium heat until it’s hot. Sprinkle a little water on the griddle; if it sizzles and evaporates immediately, the griddle is ready.
2. Spread the Batter:
   • Pour a ladleful of the fermented batter onto the center of the griddle.
   • Using the back of the ladle, spread the batter in a circular motion to form a thin dosa. The thinner, the better!
3. Cook the Dosa:
   • Drizzle a few drops of ghee or oil around the edges of the dosa.
   • Cook until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown.
   • Flip the dosa and cook for another minute or until the other side is lightly golden (optional, as dosa can also be served without flipping).
4. Serve Hot:
   • Fold the dosa in half and serve hot with your favorite chutney, sambar, or any side dish of your choice.

Tips and Tricks

• Consistency of Batter: Ensure the batter is of the right consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little water to get the perfect consistency.
• Fermentation: The fermentation process is crucial for a light and crispy dosa. If the weather is cold, place the batter in a warm oven or near a warm spot in your kitchen.
• Variation: You can also add some finely chopped onions, green chilies, or grated carrots to the batter for added flavor and nutrition.

Health Benefits of Kodo Millet

• Rich in Fiber: Kodo millet is high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Low Glycemic Index: It has a low glycemic index, making it an excellent choice for diabetics and those watching their blood sugar levels.
• Packed with Nutrients: Kodo millet is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Enjoy this nutritious and delicious Kodo Millet Dosa as a healthy breakfast or a light dinner option. It’s a great way to include more millets in your diet and savor the traditional flavors of South Indian cuisine with a modern, healthy twist.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Feel free to share your experience with Kodo Millet Dosa in the comments below. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag us on social media with your dosa creations!