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Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure and tantalise your taste buds with a traditional dish from the beautiful Konkan region? Look no further than Surnoli, a delightful pancake recipe that originates from the coastal areas of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. Surnoli pancakes are not only scrumptious but also visually appealing with their vibrant yellow colour and spongy texture. Delve into the history of Surnali and provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe to recreate these mouthwatering pancakes in the comfort of your own home.
Also read Making Fluffy Surnoli? Use These Tips
A Brief History of Surnoli:
Surnoli has a rich culinary heritage that dates back centuries. The recipe was developed in the Konkan region, which stretches along the western coast of India. Konkan cuisine is known for its vibrant flavours, use of fresh ingredients, and emphasis on coconut-based dishes. Surnoli, with its unique blend of rice, coconut, and fermentation, perfectly represents the essence of this cuisine.
The word "Surnoli" is derived from the Konkani term "Surna," which means a dosa-like pancake. Traditionally, Surnoli was prepared during festivals and special occasions, but nowadays, it has become a popular breakfast item or a snack enjoyed any time of the day. The pancakes are typically served with a variety of accompaniments such as chutneys, sambar, or a simple coconut-based curry.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice (preferably sona masuri or any short-grain variety)
- ½ cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
- ¼ cup cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Water, as needed
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Method:
- Soak the rice in water for 4-5 hours. Drain the water and rinse the rice thoroughly.
- In a blender, add the soaked rice, grated coconut, cooked rice, sugar, and salt. Blend everything together until you get a smooth batter. You may need to add water gradually to achieve the desired consistency, which should be similar to that of regular pancake batter.
- Transfer the batter to a large bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the batter to ferment overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. Fermentation adds a tangy flavour and improves the texture of the pancakes.
- After fermentation, give the batter a gentle stir. If the batter appears too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little water.
- Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
- Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the centre of the pan and spread it in a circular motion to form a thin pancake. Surnoli pancakes are smaller in size compared to regular pancakes, so aim for a diameter of around 4-5 inches.
- Cook the pancake for 1-2 minutes until you see small bubbles forming on the surface. Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges to ensure a crisp and golden-brown finish.
- Flip the pancake gently using a spatula and cook the other side for an additional minute. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, adding more oil or ghee as needed.
- Serve the freshly made Surnali pancakes hot with your choice of chutneys, sambar, or coconut curry. They can also be enjoyed on their own with a sprinkling of powdered sugar.
Now that you have the recipe, it's time to indulge in the authentic flavours of Konkan cuisine. The Surnali pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be customised to suit your taste. For a savoury twist, you can add finely chopped green chilies, cilantro, or even grated vegetables to the batter. If you have a sweet tooth, try drizzling some honey or maple syrup over the pancakes for a delightful treat.
These spongy and flavorful pancakes are not only a delicious breakfast option but also a great way to explore the diverse culinary traditions of India. So, gather the ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and savour the taste of the Konkan region with the delightful Surnoli recipe. Your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills and grateful for the delectable experience you provide them.
Surnoli is a mouthwatering dish that showcases the unique flavours of the Konkan region. Its simplicity, combined with the use of fresh ingredients, makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to try their hand at traditional Indian cuisine. So, go ahead and give this authentic recipe a try. Get ready to be transported to the sun-kissed shores of the Konkan coast with every bite of these delectable pancakes.
