Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1/2 inch ginger, grated
- A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Ghee or oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Soaking Moong Dal:
- Rinse the moong dal thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 2-3 hours. This helps in making the chilla soft and easy to cook.
2. Blending the Batter:
- After soaking, drain the water from the moong dal.
- In a blender, add moong dal, green chili, and grated ginger. Blend into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary.
3. Preparing the Batter:
- Transfer the blended mixture into a mixing bowl.
- Add chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Mix well to form a thick batter.
4. Cooking the Chilla:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a few drops of ghee or oil and spread it evenly.
- Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan, spreading it in a circular motion to form a thin pancake-like layer.
5. Adding Toppings (Optional):
- Sprinkle additional chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander on top for added flavor and texture.
6. Cooking Both Sides:
- Cook until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown. Flip the chilla and cook the other side until it's evenly cooked.
7. Repeat the Process:
- Repeat the process for the remaining batter, adding ghee or oil as needed for each chilla.
8. Serve Hot:
- Once the chillas are cooked, serve them hot with mint chutney, yogurt, or any sauce of your choice.
Benefits of Moong Dal Chilla for a Healthy Life:
1. High Protein Content:
- Moong dal is rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians to meet their protein requirements.
2. Low in Calories:
- Moong dal chilla is low in calories, making it a healthy option for weight management.
3. Rich in Dietary Fiber:
- The inclusion of vegetables in the chilla adds dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
4. Balanced Nutrition:
- With a blend of dal, vegetables, and spices, moong dal chilla provides a balanced mix of essential nutrients.
5. Suitable for Various Diets:
- This recipe is suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
6. Blood Sugar Regulation:
- Moong dal has a low glycemic index, helping in regulating blood sugar levels, making it suitable for individuals with diabetes.
7. Versatile and Customizable:
- Moong dal chilla is a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings and fillings, allowing you to experiment with flavors.
Enjoy this nutritious and delicious Moong Dal Chilla as a wholesome breakfast or snack to kickstart your day with energy and vitality!
