Benne Dosa

Benne Dosa, a beloved specialty from the city of Davangere in Karnataka, is a soft, fluffy, and mildly crisp dosa known for its generous use of benne (butter). Unlike the typical thin and crispy masala dosa, benne dosa is richer, slightly thicker, and has a melt-in-the-mouth texture thanks to the butter infused into the batter and browned on the tawa. Served traditionally with a spicy coconut chutney and a comforting potato palya, this dosa is celebrated for its unique aroma, golden color, and indulgent taste. A true classic of Karnataka’s culinary heritage, benne dosa continues to delight food lovers across India.

Ingredients

For the Batter

  • Idli rice – 2 cups
  • Urad dal – ½ cup
  • Sago (sabudana) ¼ cup
  • Poha (beaten rice) ½ cup
  • Methi seeds ½ teaspoon (optional, for better fermentation)
  • Salt – to taste
  • Water – as needed

For Cooking

  • Butter (benne) – generous quantity, for authentic taste

  • Oil – optional (a few drops while spreading)

COOK TIME

25 minutes

CALORIES

15 minutes

PROTEIN

6

FIBER

25 minutes

CARBOHYDRATES

15 minutes

SERVES

6

Instructions
Rinse and Soak
  • Wash idli rice, urad gota, sago, and fenugreek seeds (if using) thoroughly.
  • Soak idli rice plus fenugreek seeds , urad gota and sago separately in enough water for 6–8 hours.
  • Soak poha separately in water just 30 minutes before grinding (it softens quickly).
Grind the Batter
  • Drain soaked ingredients.
  • Grind urad dal + sago + poha first with some water until smooth and fluffy.
  • Then grind rice to a slightly coarse texture (like fine semolina/rava).
  • Mix both together in a large bowl. The batter should be of pouring but not watery consistency.
Ferment
  • Cover and ferment in a warm place for 8–12 hours, until the batter is doubled, bubbly, and slightly sour.
  • Add Salt
  • Once fermented, add salt to taste and mix gently.
Make Dosa
  • Heat a dosa tawa (iron or triply steel). Pour few drops of oil. Splutter few drops of water. If you hear a sizzling sound, dosa tawa is ready for use.
  • Pour a ladleful of batter and spread it in a circular motion.
  • Drizzle a few drops of oil/ghee around the edges.
  • Cook until golden and crispy. (No need to flip unless you want it soft.)
  • Serve hot with coconut chutney , tomato chutney , sambar.
  • Serve with potato onion palya for masala dosa .
Tips for Perfect Dosa
  • Batter consistency: Not too thick. Should flow easily but coat the ladle.
  • For crispier dosas: reduce quantity of poha to half.
  • Use cast iron tawa / triply steel tawa for best texture.
  • Fermentation needs warmth: If it’s cold, place batter in oven with the light on or near a warm spot.
  • Keep adding chunks of butter to make the dosa of the desired golden brown shade.
No Comments

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.