Thavala Adai

Introduction

Thavala Adai is a crispy and thick pancake made from coarsely ground rice and lentils, spiced with black pepper and ginger. Traditionally cooked over a slow flame, it’s a temple-style delicacy from Tamil Nadu.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup raw rice
  
• ¼ cup chana dal
  
• 2 tbsp toor dal
  
• 1 tsp black pepper (crushed)
  
• 1 tsp grated ginger
  
• 2 tbsp grated coconut
  
• Salt to taste
  
• Curry leaves, mustard seeds, and oil for tempering
  

Instructions:

1. Soak rice and dals together for 3–4 hours, then coarsely grind without adding too much water.
   
2. Heat oil, splutter mustard seeds and curry leaves. Add to batter with pepper, ginger, coconut, and salt.
   
3. Pour thick batter onto a tawa like a pancake.
   
4. Cook covered on low heat until both sides are golden and crisp.
   

Pro Tips:

• Keep the batter thick for a traditional texture.
  
• Can be made in small round shapes for even cooking.
  

Serving Suggestions:

• Best enjoyed with coconut chutney or jaggery.
  

Fun Fact:
It was traditionally cooked in bronze vessels over firewood for temple offerings.