Benne Dose Vs. Khaali Dose: Know The Difference Between
Image Credit: Freepik

When it comes to the diverse world of South Indian cuisine, Doses hold a special place. These fermented crepes made from rice and lentils have countless variations, each offering a unique taste and texture, like masala soda, Mysore dosa, rava dosa and many more. 

But today, why not know how these 2 variants, Benne Dose and Khaali Dose, are different? 

On the other hand, Khaali Dose, also called Khali Dose is from the Mysore region and is celebrated for its simplicity and comforting qualities. The term “khaali” means empty, indicating that these Doses typically serve pain without any stuffing. 

Read on to know the detailed difference between Benne Dose and Khaali Dose:

Batter Prepration 

Benne Dose

The batter is made from rice, urad dal and poha (flattened rice). Poha is added to give Benne Dose the softness, and the crispy outside while cooking.

Khaali Dose

Kha lo Dose batter has 2 types of rice, poha (flattened rice) and rave (semolina). It is made like this to give Khaalo Dose a thick and soft texture. It is also made without oil.

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Texture and Cooking Method

Benne Dose

Benne Dose is famous for cooking with a good amount of butter, for the soft and fluffy inside, with a crispy outside. It is cooked until the edges turn golden brown.

Khaali Dose

Khaali dose is much like pancakes, with a thick and soft character. Khaali dose is made without oil or butter and is cooked on one side and then filled to cook it soft and spongy. It is served in pairs. 

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Flavour And Richness

Benne Dose

Benne Dose has a rich and buttery flavour, the good use of butter during cooking gives this dose the rich, creamy flavour that makes the character of Benne Dose.

Khaali Dose

Milder and simpler in flavour, focusing on the natural taste of the ingredients. The absence of oil or butter showcases the natural flavour of this dose.

Serving Style

Benne Dose

Often served with a spicy potato filling (palya) and coconut chutney. The accompaniments add to the overall richness of the dish, making it a hearty meal.

Khaali Dose

Khaali Dose is served plain with chutney, sambar and pudi chutney. Pudi chutney is a spicy dry chutney powder. It is served in pairs to make it a full meal.

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Cultural Significance

Benne Dose

Benne Dose belongs to Davanger, it is loved by the locals and tourists because of its buttery rich flavour. People have it as a breakfast or snack option in the region and is often enjoyed with a cup of hot filter coffee.

Khaali Dose

Khaali Dose is popular in Mysore because of its simplicity and comforting texture. It is commonly enjoyed as a breakfast dish and is a staple in many households in the region.

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Accompaniments and Serving Suggestions

The accompaniments for Benne Dose and Khaali Dose are as distinct as the Doses. Here is what typically pairs with each:

Benne Dose Accompaniments:

  • Coconut Chutney: Coconut chutney is a classic pair of Benne Dose. It is made with fresh coconut, green chillies, and a tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves.
  • Potato Palya: Benne Dose has a spicy potato filling that is made with boiled potatoes mixed with mustard seeds, curry leaves, turmeric, and green chillies.
  • Tomato Chutney: Benne Dose is also served with a tangy chutney made with tomatoes, onions, and spices, providing a nice contrast to the buttery Dose.

Khaali Dose Accompaniments

  • Coconut Chutney: Khaali Dose is served with coconut chutney. It’s made with grinding coconut, ginger and channa dal. Just add water to make a fine paste, and then serve. 
  • Sambar: Khaali Dose is served with sambar. It’s a lentil-based vegetable stew seasoned with a variety of spices and tamarind, adding a flavorful soup-like element to the meal.
  • Chutney Pudi: Khaali Dose is also served with a spicy, dry chutney powder made with roasted lentils, red chillies, and other spices called chutney pudi. It is often sprinkled on the Dose or mixed with oil or ghee.

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While Benne Dose and Khaali Dose may seem similar at first glance, they each bring unique flavours, textures, and cultural significance to the table. Benne Dose’s rich, buttery goodness offers a decadent dining experience, perfect for those looking to indulge. On the other hand, Khaali Dose’s soft, comforting nature provides a simple yet satisfying meal, often enjoyed with a variety of condiments.