Bajra & Dal Cheela Recipe (Spicy Pearl Millet & Lentil Crepe Recipe)
Introduction
The Bajra & Dal Cheela is a delightful and nutritious dish that hails from the heart of Indian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and high protein content. This traditional North Indian breakfast option combines the earthy taste of pearl millet (bajra) with an assortment of lentils, creating a wholesome, gluten-free crepe that is both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for breakfast or a light dinner, these cheelas are typically served with zesty peanut chutney and a refreshing glass of masala chaas (spiced buttermilk) or ginger tea, ensuring a complete culinary experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Moong Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Black Urad Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Bajra (Pearl Millet) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | A few leaves |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 220 |
| Protein | Approximately 12g |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 35g |
| Fiber | Approximately 8g |
| Fat | Approximately 5g |
Preparation Steps
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Soaking the Ingredients:
Begin your culinary journey by soaking the whole green moong dal, chana dal, bajra, and whole urad dal together in sufficient water for about 5 to 6 hours. This soaking process helps soften the ingredients, making them easier to blend into a smooth batter. -
-
Preparing the Batter:
After the soaking period, drain the excess water from the dals and bajra. Using a mixer grinder, combine all the soaked ingredients along with the grated ginger, chopped coriander leaves, and green chillies. Add a little water gradually as you blend, aiming for a smooth batter that is neither too thick nor too thin, but rather of a pourable consistency. -
Flavoring the Batter:
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, stir in the salt and asafoetida. Transfer this flavorful batter to a mixing bowl, ensuring that it is well mixed and ready for cooking. -
Cooking the Cheela:
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with sunflower oil. Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the skillet, using a circular motion to spread it evenly and thinly, creating a delicate crepe. Drizzle a teaspoon of ghee or oil around the edges and in the center, allowing it to cook until both sides turn a lovely golden brown. -
Serving Suggestions:
Once cooked, carefully remove the cheela from the skillet and set it aside. Repeat the process with the remaining batter to create additional cheelas. -
Presentation:
Serve your delectable Bajra & Dal Cheela hot, accompanied by a side of peanut chutney for dipping, and complement your meal with a glass of masala chaas or a soothing cup of ginger tea, making for a wholesome breakfast or dinner that is both hearty and fulfilling.
Conclusion
The Bajra & Dal Cheela recipe not only highlights the beautiful simplicity of Indian cooking but also packs a nutritional punch, perfect for those seeking a high-protein vegetarian dish. Whether enjoyed as part of a leisurely weekend breakfast or a quick weeknight dinner, these flavorful crepes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Indulge in the taste of tradition while nourishing your body with this delightful meal. Enjoy!
