Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Adai (Mixed Lentils and Rice Pancakes)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Priya Sreeram
  • Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings 1x

Description

Crispy lentil and rice pancakes, known as Adai, offer a protein-packed and filling meal perfect for breakfast or dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup Parboiled Rice
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup Urad Dal
  • 1/2 cup Bengal Gram (Chana Dal)
  • 2 Dried Red Chillis, to taste
  • A small piece of Ginger
  • Leaves of a few sprigs of Curry leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Asafoetida, a pinch
  • Water, as needed
  • Butter, for cooking

Instructions

  1. Wash the parboiled rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 4 to 5 hours.
  2. Wash the lentils (Urad Dal and Bengal Gram) and soak them separately for a maximum of 2 hours.
  3. Drain the rice and lentils, retaining some of the water from the soaked lentils.
  4. In a blender, combine the soaked rice, lentils, dried red chillis, ginger, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida. Add salt to taste.
  5. Pulse the mixture to create a batter that is not too fine, retaining a fistful of whole lentils for texture.
  6. Add water gradually to achieve a pourable consistency, but not too thin.
  7. Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot griddle and spread it gently with the back of the ladle into a circular shape.
  8. Make a small hole in the center of the pancake and add a dollop of butter in the center.
  9. Cook until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
  10. Serve hot with yogurt, pickles, salted butter, or jaggery.

Notes

Adai batter does not require fermentation, making it quick to prepare once soaked. You can adjust the rice-to-lentil ratio based on preference. For a thicker pancake, use less water. Serve with yogurt, pickles, or jaggery for a traditional touch. Store any leftover batter in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Prep Time: 5 hours
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: South Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pancake
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 150
  • Fat: 3
  • Carbohydrates: 36
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 8
  • Cholesterol: 5