Prep Time: 6 hrs (soaking)
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: South Indian (Andhra Pradesh)
Course: Breakfast / Snack
Servings: 3–4
🌿 What is Pesarattu?
Pesarattu, also known as Green Gram Dosa, is a traditional and highly nutritious South Indian breakfast dish that originates from Andhra Pradesh. Made with whole green gram (moong beans), ginger, and green chilies, this dosa is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and rich in plant-based protein.
Unlike regular dosas, Pesarattu doesn’t require fermentation, making it a perfect go-to for quick, wholesome meals. It’s typically served with ginger chutney, coconut chutney, or even upma stuffed inside (popularly called MLA Pesarattu).

💪 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein & fiber
- No rice, no fermentation
- Ideal for diabetic or weight-loss diets
- Naturally gluten-free & vegan
- Quick to make once soaked
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 cup whole green gram (sabut moong / green moong dal)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1–2 green chilies
- ½ inch ginger
- Salt to taste
- Water (for grinding)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (optional)
- 2 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Optional toppings: Finely chopped onion, cumin, grated carrot, or green chili mix.
🧑🍳 How to Make Pesarattu – Step-by-Step
🥣 Step 1: Soak the Moong
Rinse the green gram well 2–3 times and soak it in enough water for 6 hours or overnight. This softens the beans and aids digestion.
🌀 Step 2: Grind the Batter
Drain the soaked dal and blend it with ginger and green chilies to a smooth batter. Add little water as needed to get dosa-like consistency (slightly flowing but thick).
Add salt, cumin seeds, and coriander leaves. Mix well.
Tip: No fermentation needed! You can use the batter immediately.
🔥 Step 3: Make the Dosa
Heat a non-stick or cast-iron tawa on medium-high heat. Grease lightly.
Pour a ladleful of batter at the center and spread it in a circular motion like a dosa.
Sprinkle finely chopped onions or toppings of your choice over the dosa.
Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges and let it cook for 2–3 minutes.
Flip and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes (optional).
Repeat for the remaining batter.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with allam pachadi (ginger chutney), coconut chutney, or green chutney.
- Try it with stuffed upma for an authentic MLA Pesarattu experience.
- Serve with curd and pickle for a simple dinner.
🧠 Tips & Variations
- Crispier dosa: Cook on medium-high flame using a cast-iron tawa.
- Add rice (optional): Some versions use 2 tbsp rice while grinding for extra crispiness.
- Kids-friendly: You can top it with cheese or mashed potatoes like a moong dosa wrap.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of pepper or red chili flakes to the batter.
❓ FAQs
Q: Is Pesarattu good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s made with whole green moong which is high in protein and fiber. It keeps you full longer and helps control cravings.
Q: Can I make the batter in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 2 days. Just stir well before use.
Q: Is Pesarattu gluten-free?
Absolutely. It contains no wheat, maida, or rice. Perfect for gluten-intolerant diets.
📦 Nutrition Info (Per Pesarattu)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
📌 Final Thoughts
Pesarattu is a shining example of how simple Indian ingredients can create powerful, nutritious meals. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie, a busy mom, or a student looking for a quick protein boost, this dosa will hit the spot — without any compromise on flavor.
Try it once, and it might just become your favorite healthy breakfast of the week!
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