What is Dosa called in English?

Aug 28, 2025, 10:41 IST

Dosa in English means Indian pancake or crispy pancake. Learn about dosa meaning, different types like masala dosa, rava dosa, onion dosa, plain dosa, cheese dosa, dosa recipe in English, chutney and sambar pairing, health benefits, and interesting dosa facts.

Dosa in English: Dosa is one of the most famous dishes from South India, but today it is loved across India and the whole world. In English, dosa is often called an “Indian pancake” or a “crispy pancake”. It is made using a fermented batter of rice and lentils, spread thin on a hot pan, and cooked until golden and crunchy. Unlike sweet pancakes found in the West, dosa is savoury and usually paired with chutney and sambar. This makes it both unique and healthy. Keep reading more about dosa. 

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dosa in english

What Is Dosa called in English?

The meaning of dosa in English is crispy Indian pancake. It is thin, light, and full of flavour. While pancakes in other countries are soft and sweet, dosa is crispy and savoury. It is a special dish that shows the creativity of Indian cooking. When explained in English, dosa can be described as a “fermented rice and lentil pancake” that is part of everyday Indian meals.

Types of Dosa in English

Dosa has many varieties, and each type has its own English name and special flavour:

Masala Dosa in English – Known as a “spiced potato pancake.” It is stuffed with a filling made of mashed potatoes, onions, and spices. This is the most famous type of dosa and is loved by people all over the world. Many restaurants outside India serve masala dosa as their main South Indian dish.

Plain Dosa in English – Called a “plain pancake” because it has no stuffing inside. It is enjoyed with sambar and coconut chutney. Even though it is simple, people love it for its crispiness and golden texture. It is often the first dosa people try before exploring other varieties.

Rava Dosa in English – A “semolina pancake” that is very thin and extra crispy. Unlike traditional dosa batter, it is made quickly using semolina, rice flour, and spices without fermentation. This dosa is perfect for those who want a crunchy and quick-to-make breakfast option.

Onion Dosa in English – Called an “onion pancake” because finely chopped onions are spread over the dosa. The onions make it sweet, crunchy, and more filling. Many street food stalls serve hot onion dosas because they are both tasty and affordable.

Cheese Dosa in English – Known as a “cheese-filled pancake.” This modern version is very popular among kids, teenagers, and food lovers. It combines the Indian dosa with a global favourite – cheese – making it a fusion dish that is loved in India and abroad.

dosa

Dosa Recipe 

The dosa recipe in English is very simple but requires patience. First, rice and urad dal (black gram) are soaked for several hours. Then they are ground into a smooth batter and left to ferment overnight. This fermentation gives dosa its unique sour taste and health benefits. After that, the batter is spread thin on a hot pan, brushed with oil or ghee, and cooked until crispy. Some people like their dosa soft, while others enjoy it extra crispy. This method shows why dosa is not just food but an art.

Dosa with Chutney and Sambar

In English, dosa is often explained together with chutney and sambar, because they complete the meal. Coconut chutney is creamy and cooling, tomato chutney adds tangy flavor, and onion chutney gives a spicy kick. Alongside this, sambar is a lentil-based vegetable stew made with tamarind, spices, and curry leaves. When dosa is dipped into chutney and sambar, the combination becomes one of the most loved breakfasts in the world.

masala dosa

Health Benefits of Dosa

Light and Healthy—Dosa is very light on the stomach and easy to digest, making it a great breakfast or dinner option. Many people prefer dosa over fried foods because it is healthier.

Protein-Rich – Since dosa batter is made with lentils (urad dal), it provides good protein, which helps in body growth and repair. Eating dosa with chutney and sambar makes it a balanced meal.

Gluten-Free – Dosa is naturally gluten-free as it is made with rice and lentils. This makes it safe for people with gluten allergies or wheat sensitivity.

Fermented Food – Fermentation improves digestion and increases vitamins in the batter. That is why dosa is considered not only tasty but also good for gut health.

Perfect Breakfast – Dosa keeps you full for a long time but does not make you feel heavy. This is why people across India prefer dosa as a morning meal.

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Jasreet Kaur
Jasreet Kaur

Content Writer

Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with over two years of experience and a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication. Driven and committed, she writes on current affairs and general knowledge, fueled by a desire to see positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.

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