Welcome to the wonderful world of Indian cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a delicious and healthy recipe called Moong Dal Chilla. This dish is a popular, savory pancake made from yellow split lentils, known as moong dal. Not only is it scrumptious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a favorite for many families across India.
The cultural significance of Moong Dal Chilla stems from its roots in traditional Indian cooking, where lentils play a vital role. This dish is often enjoyed as a breakfast item, snack, or light meal, perfect for any time of the day. Its rising popularity is attributed to its health benefits, easy preparation, and mouth-watering taste, making it a hit among both adults and kids alike!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Moong dal (yellow split lentils) | 1 cup |
| Water | As needed |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 1-2 (adjust to taste) |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small |
| Coriander leaves (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Oil or ghee (for cooking) | As needed |
Alternative: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, keep the recipe as is—Moong Dal Chilla is already perfect for that!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the Lentils: Rinse the moong dal under cold water, then soak it in water for about 2 hours.
- Make the Batter: After soaking, drain the dal. In a blender, add the moong dal, ginger, and a little water to form a smooth batter. The batter should be pourable but not too thin.
- Add Ingredients: Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl. Mix in chopped green chilies, onions, coriander leaves, salt, and turmeric powder.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick frying pan or tawa over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of oil or ghee and let it heat up.
- Cook the Chilla: Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it in a circular manner. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to lift and turn golden brown.
- Flip and Finish: Flip the chilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden. Repeat for the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.
- Serve: Serve hot with chutney or yogurt for dipping and enjoy your delicious Moong Dal Chilla!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 6% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 2g | 4% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sodium | 220mg | 10% |
Tips and Tricks
- For added flavor, try adding spices like cumin or red chili powder to the batter.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, keep the batter a little thicker and cook on low heat.
- A common mistake is not soaking the lentils long enough; ensure they soak for at least 2 hours for the best results!
FAQs
What is Moong Dal Chilla?
Moong Dal Chilla is a savory pancake made from ground yellow split lentils, often mixed with spices and vegetables.
Is Moong Dal Chilla healthy?
Yes! It is rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for breakfast or snacks.
Can I make Moong Dal Chilla ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for a day. Just cook the chillas when you are ready!
What can I serve with Moong Dal Chilla?
It pairs well with chutney, yogurt, or even a spicy pickle for extra flavor.
How do I store leftover Moong Dal Chilla?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I make Moong Dal Chilla vegan?
Yes, just use oil instead of ghee, and it’s completely vegan-friendly!
Can I add other vegetables to Moong Dal Chilla?
Absolutely! You can add grated carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
What type of lentils can I use?
While yellow moong dal is traditional, you can also experiment with green moong dal or other lentils, keeping in mind the cooking time might change.
What makes the chilla soft or hard?
The water content in the batter and the heat of the pan greatly affects the texture. Adding the right amount of water is key!
How do I know when the chilla is cooked?
The chilla should be golden brown on both sides, and the edges will lift easily when it’s cooked.
Can I skip soaking the dal?
It’s not recommended, as soaking softens the lentils, making them easier to blend and digest.
Is Moong Dal Chilla suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s nutritious and can be made without too much spice, making it a perfect snack for kids.
Now that you know all about Moong Dal Chilla, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This delightful dish is sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body.
