Recipe: Moringa Leaves Adai Dosa

Adai Dosa is a traditional South Indian savory pancake made from a mixture of lentils and rice. Adding the forgotten food, moringa leaves to this dish not only enhances its flavor but also significantly boosts its nutritional value. Moringa leaves or drumstick tree leaves have long been valued for their medicinal and nutritional properties. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this version of Adai is a wholesome breakfast or snack option.

Ingredients:

• For the Batter:

  • 1 cup raw rice (sona masuri or parboiled)
  • ¼ cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
  • ¼ cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
  • ¼ cup urad dal (black gram)
  • ¼ cup moong dal (yellow split lentils)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2-3 dried red chilies
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
  • ½ inch piece of ginger
  • Salt to taste

• For the Filling:

  • 1 cup fresh moringa leaves (drumstick leaves), cleaned and stems removed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil or ghee for cooking

Instructions:

1. Soak the Rice and Lentils:

   • Wash the rice and dals (lentils) thoroughly. Soak them together with the red chilies for 3-4 hours.
     
     

2. Grind the Batter:

   • Drain the soaked rice and lentils. Grind them in a blender or wet grinder along with ginger, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds (if using), adding water little by little to form a thick, slightly coarse batter. The consistency should be thicker than regular dosa batter. Add salt and mix well.
     
     

3. Prepare the Moringa Mixture:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the moringa leaves, chopped onions, green chilies, grated coconut (if using), and a pinch of asafoetida. Add a little salt and mix well.
     
     

4. Make the Adai:

   • Heat a dosa tawa (griddle) over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
   • Pour a ladle of batter in the center of the tawa and spread it in a circular motion, like you would for a dosa, but thicker.
   • Sprinkle a handful of the moringa mixture on top and press it gently into the batter.
   • Drizzle oil or ghee around the edges and over the top. Cook until the edges are golden and crisp.
   • Flip the adai and cook for a couple more minutes until the other side is also cooked well.
     
     

5. Serve:

   • Serve the Moringa Leaves Adai hot with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar for a wholesome, protein-rich meal.

Health Benefits of the forgotten food, Moringa Leaves Adai dosa:

• Moringa Leaves are packed with vitamins A, C, and calcium, as well as powerful antioxidants.
• The lentils and rice provide a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a complete meal.
• The dish is high in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.

Moringa Leaves Adai Dosa is not only delicious but also a nutrient-dense alternative to regular dosas, making it an excellent addition to your healthy diet!