Thoushe Polo
A savory Konkani pancake made from grated cucumber and rice batter. This soft, flavorful dosa is a beloved breakfast dish, perfect with a side of coconut chutney. A unique and refreshing twist on the classic polo!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Cucumber Base
- b.Wash the cucumber thoroughly. You can either peel it or leave the skin on for extra fiber and a slight green hue.
- c.Grate the cucumber using a medium-sized grater directly into a large mixing bowl.
- d.Crucially, do not squeeze or discard the water released by the cucumber. This natural juice is key to the batter's flavor and consistency.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Mix and Rest the Batter
- b.To the bowl with grated cucumber and its juice, add the rice flour, grated fresh coconut, finely chopped green chilies, grated ginger, jaggery, chopped coriander leaves, and salt.
- c.Using your hand or a spatula, mix all the ingredients well. The moisture from the cucumber should be enough to form a thick, lumpy dough.
- d.Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a thick but pourable batter. The consistency should be similar to that of an uttapam batter, not as thin as a regular dosa batter.
- e.Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice flour to hydrate fully and the flavors to meld together.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Thoushe Polo
- b.Heat a non-stick tawa or a well-seasoned cast-iron griddle over medium heat.
- c.Once the tawa is hot, grease it lightly with about 1/4 teaspoon of oil.
- d.Stir the batter once more before using. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the center of the tawa.
- e.Gently spread it with the back of the ladle into a small, thick circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter. Do not try to make it too thin.
- f.Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges of the polo.
- g.Cover with a lid and cook for about 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat, until the top surface appears cooked and the edges start to lift slightly.
- h.Carefully flip the polo using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, uncovered, until it's light golden brown and cooked through.
- i.Repeat the process for the remaining batter, greasing the tawa lightly before making each polo.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve Hot
- b.Remove the cooked polo from the tawa and place it on a serving plate.
- c.Thoushe Polo is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pan, with a side of coconut chutney, pickle, or a dollop of butter.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh, tender cucumbers that are not bitter.
- 2The batter consistency is crucial. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but pourable. Adjust with water carefully.
- 3Cook the polos on a consistent medium to medium-low heat to ensure they cook evenly from the inside out without burning.
- 4Do not skip the resting time for the batter; it results in softer and more flavorful polos.
- 5If your tawa is not well-seasoned, grease it generously for the first polo to prevent sticking.
- 6For a crispier edge, you can add a tablespoon of fine semolina (rava) to the batter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice Addition
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds (jeera) and a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the batter for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable AdditionVegetable Addition
Incorporate 1/4 cup of finely chopped onions or grated carrots into the batter for added texture and sweetness.
Flour VariationFlour Variation
For a healthier version, you can replace a portion of the white rice flour with brown rice flour or ragi (finger millet) flour.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder or increase the number of green chilies for a spicier kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydrating Properties
Made with fresh cucumber, which is over 95% water, this dish helps in keeping your body hydrated and cool, making it an excellent choice for breakfast.
Good Source of Energy
The primary ingredient, rice flour, is a good source of carbohydrates, providing sustained energy to keep you active throughout the morning.
Aids in Digestion
The presence of dietary fiber from cucumber (especially with skin) and spices like ginger helps promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
Naturally Gluten-Free
As this recipe uses only rice flour, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable and delicious option for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Thoushe Polo is a relatively healthy breakfast option. It's made with cucumber, which is hydrating and low in calories, and rice flour, which provides energy. It is gluten-free and can be made with minimal oil. Leaving the cucumber skin on adds dietary fiber.