Beyond The Regulars, Try This Easy Recipe For An Authentic Neer Dosa

Neer Dosa, which translates to 'water crepe' in Kannada, derives its name from the Kannada word 'neeru,' meaning water. This iconic dish has been a staple in the coastal regions of Karnataka and Kerala for centuries, where it is enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item. Traditionally made with just rice batter and water, Neer Dosa is known for its thin, lace-like texture and subtle, slightly tangy flavour. Over time, variations of Neer Dosa have emerged, with some recipes incorporating coconut milk or grated coconut for added richness.

Neer Dosa Ingredients

1. Raw rice: The main Neer Dosa ingredient is raw rice, which is soaked in water for several hours to soften before grinding into a smooth batter. Opt for short-grain rice varieties like Sona Masoori or Ponni rice for the best results.
2. Water: As the name suggests, water plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Neer Dosa recipe, both in the batter-making process and during cooking. The batter should be thin and pourable, similar to the consistency of crepe batter, to achieve the desired thinness of the dosa.
3. Salt: A pinch of salt is added to the batter to enhance the flavour of the Neer Dosa. Use fine salt for even distribution throughout the batter.

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Step-by-step neer dosa recipe

1. Rinse the raw rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in enough water to cover it completely for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
2. After soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add enough fresh water to cover the rice and grind it into a smooth batter.
3. Once the batter is smooth, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and add salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
4. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease the skillet with oil or ghee.
5. Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour a small amount of batter onto the centre of the skillet and quickly swirl it around to spread it thinly into a crepe-like shape.
6. Cook the Neer Dosa for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to lift and the surface appears dry. Unlike other dosas, Neer Dosa doesn't need to be flipped as it's meant to cook only on one side. 
7. Once cooked, gently remove the Neer Dosa from the skillet and transfer it to a plate.
8. Serve the Neer Dosa hot with your favourite accompaniments such as coconut chutney, sambar, or a spicy potato curry.

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What to pair Neer Dosa with?

Neer Dosa, with its light and delicate texture, pairs exceptionally well with a variety of accompaniments that complement its subtle flavour profile. Here are some traditional and popular options to consider when serving Neer Dosa:

1. Coconut Chutney: A classic accompaniment to Neer Dosa, coconut chutney adds a creamy and mildly sweet flavour that perfectly balances the dosa's subtle taste. Made with fresh coconut, green chillies, and spices, coconut chutney is a refreshing and versatile side dish.
2. Sambar: Another staple of South Indian cuisine, sambar is a flavorful lentil-based stew made with vegetables and aromatic spices. Its tangy and slightly spicy taste pairs beautifully with the lightness of Neer Dosa, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.
3. Potato Curry: A spicy and savoury potato curry makes a delicious accompaniment to Neer Dosa. The creamy texture of the curry and the hearty flavours of the potatoes complement the delicate dosa, adding depth and richness to the dish.
4. Tomato Chutney: Tangy and slightly sweet, tomato chutney adds a burst of flavour to Neer Dosa. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, and spices, this chutney offers a vibrant and refreshing contrast to the dosa's subtle taste.
5. Pickles: Spicy and tangy pickles, such as mango pickles or lemon pickles, can add an extra kick of flavour to Neer Dosa. The bold flavours of the pickles complement the lightness of the dosa, creating a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
6. Yoghurt: Cool and creamy yoghurt makes a simple yet delicious accompaniment to Neer Dosa. Its mild and refreshing taste helps to balance the spices and flavours of other dishes, making it a versatile option for pairing with dosa.