# Neer Dosa Recipe with Chicken Curry (Mangalore Style)
Neer Dosa, a classic dish hailing from Karnataka’s coastal area, is a scrumptious and adaptable crepe that has become well-loved for its light essence and simple preparation. When served alongside Mangalore-style chicken curry, it evolves into a fulfilling meal that highlights the rich food traditions of South India. This article will guide you through the recipe for Neer Dosa, complemented by a savory Mangalore chicken curry.
## What is Neer Dosa?
The phrase “Neer Dosa” means “water crepe” in Kannada and Tulu, aptly reflecting its watery batter texture. Unlike conventional dosas, Neer Dosa skips the fermentation step, making it a fast and convenient choice for breakfast or any meal. These delicate, lacey crepes are not only pleasing to the eye but also extremely versatile, pairing wonderfully with various accompaniments, from spicy chutneys to hearty curries.
## Ingredients for Neer Dosa
### For the Neer Dosa:
– 1 cup rice (ideally soaked for 4-6 hours)
– Water (as necessary)
– Salt (to taste)
– Oil or ghee (for cooking)
### For the Mangalore Chicken Curry:
– 500 grams chicken, chopped into pieces
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 large onion, finely diced
– 2-3 green chilies, slashed
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 2 teaspoons red chili powder
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt (to taste)
– Fresh coriander leaves (for garnishing)
– Coconut milk (optional, for added creaminess)
## Instructions
### Preparing Neer Dosa:
1. **Make the Batter**: Drain the soaked rice and blend it with adequate water to create a smooth, pourable batter. The texture should resemble that of a thin pancake batter. Season with salt and mix thoroughly.
2. **Heat the Pan**: Place a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the pan with oil or ghee.
3. **Cook the Dosa**: Pour a ladle of the batter onto the hot pan and quickly swirl it to spread it evenly. The dosa should be thin and lacy. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift and the surface sets. There’s no need to flip it; it steams to cook through.
4. **Repeat**: Take out the cooked dosa and continue with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.
### Preparing Mangalore Chicken Curry:
1. **Sauté the Onions**: In a large skillet, heat oil on medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. **Add Aromatics**: Mix in the green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Cook for a few minutes until the raw aroma fades.
3. **Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices**: Add the diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
4. **Cook the Chicken**: Introduce the chicken pieces to the pan, mixing well to coat them with the spices. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. **Simmer**: Add water to cover the chicken and bring to a boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken becomes tender. If you prefer, add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
6. **Finish with Garam Masala**: Stir in garam masala and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
## Serving Suggestions
Serve the Neer Dosa hot with a generous serving of Mangalore chicken curry on the side. The soft, delicate crepes soak up the flavorful curry, creating a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with coconut chutney or a spicy tomato chutney.
## Tips for Perfect Neer Dosa
– **Batter Consistency**: Make sure the batter is thin and smooth. Adjust the water content as needed.
– **Non-Stick Pan**: A non-stick pan helps in avoiding sticking. If using cast iron, ensure it is well-seasoned.
– **Quick Cooking**: Neer dosas cook fast, so monitor them closely to prevent overcooking.
## Conclusion
Neer Dosa paired with Mangalore chicken curry is a delightful combination that showcases the flavors of Karnataka’s coastal cuisine. Whether you are