Bean lentil recipe (moong dal)

By -
dal recipe in a plate

 If you're looking for a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, then Moong Dal, also known as bean lentil or split green gram, is your perfect dish! This lentil recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings an array of health benefits. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll love making this easy dal.

Why Choose Moong Dal?

Moong dal, a staple in Indian cuisine, is an incredibly versatile lentil that’s low in fat and high in protein. It’s easily digestible, making it great for light meals, and is packed with essential nutrients like fiber, potassium, and B-vitamins. Unlike heavier lentils, moong dal has a subtle flavor, allowing it to absorb spices beautifully and adapt to various recipes.

Whether you're preparing it for lunch or dinner, it’s comforting, warming, and pairs well with rice, roti (flatbread), or a fresh salad. Let’s dive into a simple yet flavorsome recipe that you can whip up in under 30 minutes.

Simple Moong Dal Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium-sized tomato, finely chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 1-2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (optional for a bit of heat)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala (optional for added depth of flavor)
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee (clarified butter)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the Moong Dal: Start by rinsing the moong dal thoroughly under running water. Soak it for about 10-15 minutes, which will help it cook faster.

  2. Cook the Dal: In a pressure cooker or pot, add the rinsed moong dal, 3 cups of water, and a pinch of turmeric. Cook the dal until it's soft and mushy. If using a pressure cooker, wait for 1-2 whistles. In a regular pot, it may take around 15-20 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  3. Prepare the Tempering (Tadka): In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Then, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for about a minute until the raw smell disappears.

  4. Add Onions and Tomatoes: Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes next and cook until they become soft and mushy.

  5. Spice It Up: Add turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala (if using), and salt. Mix well and cook the masala for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.

  6. Mix Dal and Masala: Once the masala is ready, pour the cooked moong dal into the pan. Stir everything together, letting the dal simmer for another 5-7 minutes. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. The dal should be thick but still have a soupy texture.

  7. Garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish your dal with fresh cilantro leaves.

  8. Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice (cumin rice), or rotis. You can even pair it with a side of yogurt and pickles for a complete meal!

Health Benefits of Moong Dal

  1. Rich in Protein: Moong dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegans and vegetarians.
  2. Supports Digestion: The fiber in moong dal helps improve digestion and prevents constipation.
  3. Weight-Loss Friendly: Low in calories and high in fiber, it keeps you full for longer, supporting weight management.
  4. Promotes Heart Health: It contains antioxidants and is low in cholesterol, which helps in maintaining good heart health.

Tips to Customize Your Moong Dal:

  • Add veggies: Feel free to add spinach, carrots, or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture.
  • Creamy texture: For a creamier dal, mash some of the lentils after they’re cooked or add a small amount of coconut milk or cream.
  • Tangy twist: A dash of lemon juice at the end can give your dal a refreshing tang.

Conclusion

This simple Moong Dal recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its mild flavor makes it a family favorite, and you can easily customize it to suit your palate. The next time you crave something hearty yet healthy, give this dal a try—you’ll love how it warms your soul!

Happy cooking! Let me know how your Moong Dal turns out!

Location: दिल्ली, भारत

Comments

Post a Comment

More recipe links.

Malai Chaap recipe (A Vegetarian Delight)

By -
Image
If you're a fan of North Indian flavors and are looking for a creamy, savory delight that also happens to be vegetarian, then Malai Chaap should definitely be on your must-try list. This popular North Indian street food is beloved for its rich, creamy texture and tantalizing taste that has earned it a dedicated fanbase across the country. Here's everything you need to know about this delicious dish, along with tips on how to make it at home. What is Malai Chaap? Chaap refers to a mock meat made from soya (soybean), which has a texture and bite similar to meat, making it a fantastic substitute for vegetarians. Malai Chaap, specifically, is chaap cooked in a rich, creamy marinade. The word "malai" means cream, indicating that this dish is typically prepared with a luscious blend of fresh cream, yogurt, and mild spices. The chaap sticks are coated in a spiced, creamy mixture, then grilled or roasted, often with a smoky flavor from a tandoor (clay oven) or grill. This ...
Read more

Lemon pickle recipe

By -
Image
 Lemon pickle, a tangy and spicy condiment, has been a staple in kitchens across the globe for generations. Whether paired with rice, flatbreads, or used as a zesty addition to sandwiches and wraps, lemon pickle brings a burst of flavor that is hard to resist. Making it at home is surprisingly simple, and the result is far superior to store-bought versions. Let's dive into a traditional lemon pickle recipe that's sure to become your favorite. Ingredients: 10 medium-sized lemons (washed and wiped dry) 2 tablespoons salt 1 tablespoon turmeric powder 1/4 cup mustard seeds 2 tablespoons fenugreek seeds 3-4 tablespoons red chili powder (adjust to taste) 1 tablespoon asafoetida (hing) 1/2 cup sesame oil (or mustard oil for a traditional flavor) 1/4 cup vinegar (optional, for extra tanginess and preservation) 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for balancing flavors) Instructions: Step 1: Prepare the Lemons Cut each lemon into small wedges (about 8 pieces per lemon) or smaller, depending o...
Read more

Method for making mango pickle (aam ka achar)

By -
Image
 The Tangy Tale of Mango Pickle: A Taste of Tradition and Nostalgia Mango pickle isn't just a condiment—it's a celebration of flavor, culture, and family traditions. A simple bite of mango pickle brings a flood of tangy, spicy, and savory notes that has been loved and cherished across generations and continents. Let's dive into the story, the process, and the significance of mango pickle in our culinary heritage. 1. The Origins of Mango Pickle: A Time-Tested Tradition Pickling has been a beloved preservation technique for centuries, used across various cultures to store and flavor seasonal produce. In India, the art of pickling is deeply rooted in history and spans a variety of ingredients, though mango pickle stands out as a universal favorite. Across the country, different regions boast unique styles and recipes, each with a special mix of spices and techniques passed down through generations. 2. Choosing the Right Mango: The Key to a Perfect Pickle The choice of mango is...
Read more

Paneer noodles recipe

By -
Image
 If you're a fan of fusion dishes, then paneer noodles might just be your next favorite recipe. This delightful combination of Indian flavors and classic Asian noodles brings out the best of both worlds. With its unique twist, it's a dish that suits everything from weekday dinners to a fun party snack. Here's an easy, step-by-step recipe for making delicious paneer noodles at home! Ingredients Noodles - 200 grams (any type you prefer: hakka noodles, instant noodles, or rice noodles) Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) - 200 grams, cut into small cubes Oil- 2 tablespoons Garlic - 4-5 cloves, finely chopped Ginger - 1-inch piece, finely chopped Green chillies- 2, slit Onion – 1 medium, sliced Bell peppers (capsicum) - 1, thinly sliced ​​(mix of colors works best) Carrot – 1, julienned Cabbage – 1/2 cup, shredded Spring onions - 2-3 stalks, chopped for garnish Soy sauce- 1 tablespoon Tomato ketchup- 1 tablespoon Red chili sauce - 1/2 tablespoon (adjust to taste) Black...
Read more

Veg manchurian recipe

By -
Image
  A Flavorful Fusion of Indo-Chinese Delight Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish known for its vibrant, tangy, and spicy flavors. Originally inspired by Chinese cuisine, this dish has taken on unique Indian twists to cater to local tastes. This fusion is now a staple in Indian street food and loved by food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you're looking for a delicious vegetarian appetizer or a savory main course, the Manchurian recipe is versatile and easy to make. Here's how you can prepare this dish at home! Types of Manchurian There are two main types of Manchurian: Veg Manchurian : Made with finely chopped vegetables formed into balls. Chicken Manchurian : Made with boneless chicken pieces or chicken mince shaped into balls. Both can be served in two styles: Dry Manchurian : Often served as an appetizer. Gravy Manchurian : Best served with fried rice or noodles as a main course. In this post, we'll focus on Veg Manchurian in both dry and gravy forms. Ingredien...
Read more

Singapuri chowmein

By -
Image
 If you love a spicy twist on your noodles, you've likely encountered Singapuri Chowmein, a unique take on stir-fried noodles inspired by Singapore's multicultural cuisine. Although it's not a traditional Singaporean dish, Singapuri Chowmein has become popular across Asia and is especially beloved in Indian-Chinese cuisine. With its bright color, bold spices, and addictive flavors, it's a street-food favorite that's quick and easy to make at home. Let's dive into what makes Singapuri Chowmein special and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen. What is Singapuri Chowmein? Singapuri Chowmein is a flavorful stir-fried noodle dish influenced by Singaporean and Indian-Chinese culinary styles. It's a marriage of Chinese chow mein noodles with spices and ingredients typical of South Asian cuisine. Unlike classic chow mein, which uses a soy-based sauce, Singapuri Chowmein often has a mix of chili sauces, curry powder, and other spices that give it a bright yell...
Read more

How to Make Delicious Veg Steamed Momos at Home

By -
Image
  If you're a fan of dumplings, you're probably already familiar with momos—a beloved dish hailing from Tibet and popular throughout the Indian subcontinent. These delicious little parcels of dough filled with a flavorful vegetable filling and steamed to perfection make for a mouthwatering appetizer or snack. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to making momos, here's a simple guide to creating the perfect plate of veg steamed momos at home. Why Veg Steamed Momos? Steamed momos are a healthy choice compared to their fried counterparts, and the vegetable filling makes them light yet satisfying. They're also highly versatile; you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Additionally, momos are easy to make in large batches, making them a perfect party snack or meal prep option. Ingredients You'll Need For the dough: 1 cup all-purpose flour ¼ tsp salt Water (as needed) For the Filling: 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped ½ cup carrots, grated ¼ ...
Read more

Pav bhaji recipe

By -
Image
Pav Bhaji Recipe – The Ultimate Mumbai Street Food Delight 🍛🥖 If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of Mumbai’s bustling streets, it’s Pav Bhaji . This buttery, spicy mash of vegetables served with soft, toasted buns (pav) is not just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’ve had it at a street stall or at a fancy restaurant, there’s something about that rich aroma and sizzling butter that pulls you in. In this blog post, I’m sharing a step-by-step Pav Bhaji recipe that you can easily recreate at home. Get ready to bring the flavors of Chowpatty Beach right into your kitchen! 🌟 What is Pav Bhaji? Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that originated in Mumbai. It’s a thick vegetable curry (bhaji) made by mashing boiled vegetables and cooking them with a special Pav Bhaji Masala , butter, and tomatoes. It's served hot with soft pav (bread rolls), toasted on a griddle with generous amounts of butter. 📝 Ingredients For the Bhaji: 2 large potatoes (boiled an...
Read more

Black pepper and milk cold drink

By -
Image
  Cold Drink of Black Pepper and Milk . The Surprising Coolness: Cold Drink of Black Pepper and Milk When you think of summer coolers, your mind probably jumps to lemonade, iced tea, or maybe a mango shake. But what if we told you there’s a bold, lesser-known concoction that combines the spiciness of black pepper with the soothing creaminess of milk—and it’s served cold ? Introducing: the Cold Drink of Black Pepper and Milk. A Strange Pairing? Think Again! At first glance, mixing black pepper and milk sounds like a culinary contradiction. One’s fiery and pungent; the other is calm and creamy. But together, they create a drink that’s not just refreshing, but also surprisingly balanced in flavor and packed with health benefits. This unique beverage isn’t new—variations of it exist in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, where black pepper is celebrated for its digestive and immunity-boosting properties, and milk is praised for its nourishment and calming effect on the bo...
Read more

The ultimate mix veg pizza

By -
Image
Title: The Ultimate Mix Veg Pizza: A Flavorful Journey Through Freshness and Taste Pizza—one of the most beloved dishes worldwide—has taken many forms over the years. While classic options like Margherita and Pepperoni have their place, there's something uniquely satisfying about a Mix Veg Pizza . It's a celebration of fresh vegetables, a perfect balance of flavors, and a comforting dish for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. In this post, we'll explore the origins, ingredients, and reasons why Mix Veg Pizza is a great choice for your next pizza night. What is Mix Veg Pizza? A Mix Veg Pizza is a pizza topped with a variety of vegetables, offering a refreshing contrast to the more traditional meat-heavy varieties. The combination of fresh ingredients brings a balance of textures—crunchy, soft, and gooey—that make every bite a satisfying experience. Typically, the vegetables used in a mix veg pizza can range from the classic—such as pepper bells, onions, and ...
Read more