Chettinad Adai is a traditional South indian savory pancake made with a mix of lentils and rice, spiced with aromatic Chettinad masala. Unlike regular dosa, adai is thicker, more protein-rich, and highly nutritious, making it perfect for breakfast or a wholesome snack.
Ingredients
For the Batter:
1/2 cup chana dal (Bengal gram)
1/4 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
1/4 cup urad dal (split black gram)
1/4 cup rice (raw or parboiled)
1 tsp cumin seeds
2–3 dry red chilies (adjust to taste)
1-inch piece of ginger, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 green chilies, chopped
2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Salt to taste
Oil or ghee for cooking
Instructions
Soak and Grind:
Wash and soak the lentils and rice together for 3–4 hours.
Drain and grind coarsely with cumin seeds, dry red chilies, and ginger, using minimal water.
The batter should be slightly coarse, not smooth.
Prepare the Batter:
Transfer the batter to a bowl.
Add chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, and salt. Mix well.
The batter should be thick enough to spread like a pancake.
Cook the Adai:
Heat a non-stick tawa or griddle and grease lightly with oil or ghee.
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the tawa and spread gently into a thick circle.
Drizzle a little oil around the edges and cook on medium heat.
Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown and crisp.
Serve:
Serve hot with coconut chutney, jaggery, or ghee.
Tips for Perfect Chettinad Adai:
Keep the batter slightly thick; too thin batter will make it sticky and hard to flip.
Use minimal water while grinding to retain the coarse texture.
Cook on medium heat to ensure the inside cooks well without burning the outside.
You can add curry leaves, grated coconut, or a pinch of asafoetida for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Chettinad Adai:
High in Protein: A mix of lentils provides a rich source of plant-based protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Fiber: Lentils and rice aid digestion and keep you full longer, supporting weight management.
Low Glycemic Index: The combination of lentils and rice helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Nutritious and Wholesome: Provides essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Gluten-Free Option: Suitable for those avoiding gluten while enjoying a traditional South indian dish.
Chettinad Adai is a spicy, nutritious, and filling dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty snack. Its bold flavors and protein-packed ingredients make it a wholesome South indian classic.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk..jpg)
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