Urad Dal Polo
A savory, protein-rich crepe from South Indian Konkani cuisine made purely from urad dal. These soft, spongy dosas are naturally gluten-free and come together quickly, perfect for a healthy breakfast or light meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Soak the Dal
- b.Rinse the urad dal under running water 3-4 times, until the water runs clear.
- c.Soak the dal in 4 cups of fresh water for at least 4 hours, or up to 6 hours. Soaking makes the dal easier to grind into a smooth batter.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Grind the Batter
- b.Drain the soaking water completely from the dal.
- c.Transfer the soaked dal, chopped ginger, and green chillies to a high-speed blender or wet grinder.
- d.Add 1/2 cup of fresh water and begin grinding. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- e.Gradually add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, thick, and fluffy batter. The final consistency should be similar to idli batter - pourable but not watery.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Finalize the Batter
- b.Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl.
- c.Stir in the salt and hing (asafoetida). Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can deflate the batter.
- d.Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is optional but helps the flavors meld.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Polos
- b.Heat a non-stick tawa or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- c.To check if the tawa is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
- d.Lightly grease the tawa with a few drops of oil using a paper towel or half an onion.
- e.Pour a ladleful (about 1/4 cup) of batter onto the center of the hot tawa.
- f.Gently spread the batter in a circular motion to form a small, slightly thick pancake, about 5-6 inches in diameter. Do not spread it too thin like a crispy dosa.
- g.Drizzle about 1/2 teaspoon of oil around the edges and a few drops on top.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Flip and Serve
- b.Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the top surface appears cooked and the edges begin to lift easily from the tawa.
- c.Using a spatula, flip the polo and cook the other side for another minute until light golden spots appear.
- d.Fold the polo in half and transfer to a serving plate.
- e.Repeat the process with the remaining batter, greasing the tawa lightly before making each polo.
- f.Serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or a spicy pickle.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a fluffier polo, use a wet grinder instead of a blender. It incorporates more air into the batter.
- 2The batter consistency is crucial. If it's too thick, the polo will be dense. If too thin, it will be difficult to spread and may turn crispy instead of soft.
- 3Unlike many dosas, this batter does not require fermentation. It should be used within a few hours of grinding for the best taste and texture.
- 4Maintain a consistent medium heat. A tawa that is too hot will cause the batter to cook instantly and stick, preventing proper spreading.
- 5For best results, use a well-seasoned cast-iron tawa, which distributes heat evenly and imparts a unique flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Polo
Add finely chopped onions, fresh cilantro, grated carrots, or chopped spinach to the batter before cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Spiced PoloSpiced Polo
Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of crushed black peppercorns or cumin seeds into the batter for a warm, aromatic twist.
Garlic PoloGarlic Polo
Add 2-3 cloves of garlic along with the ginger and green chillies while grinding the batter for a pungent, savory flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Protein Powerhouse
Urad dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Promotes Digestive Health
Rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, Urad Dal Polo aids in digestion, helps prevent constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Natural Energy Booster
This dish is a good source of iron, a mineral crucial for producing hemoglobin and preventing anemia. Adequate iron intake helps improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Supports Bone Health
Urad dal contains important minerals like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, which play a vital role in maintaining bone density and strength.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Urad dal is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, iron, and magnesium. This dish is naturally gluten-free and provides sustained energy, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.