Dhaba Style Green Moong Dal Tadka Recipe
Description:
Dhaba Style Green Moong Dal Tadka is a delectable and wholesome dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. With a perfect blend of spices and the earthy flavor of green moong dal, this North Indian recipe brings a comforting and satisfying meal to your table. Ideal for lunch, this dish is rich in protein, making it a wonderful choice for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Moong Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 4 sprigs, chopped |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons, freshly squeezed |
For Seasoning:
| Ingredients for Seasoning | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Soak the Moong Dal
Begin by soaking the green moong dal in 3 cups of water for at least an hour. This helps soften the dal and reduces cooking time. -
Prepare the Tadka Base
In a pressure cooker, add 1 tablespoon of ghee and heat it on medium flame. Once the ghee is hot, add the chopped ginger, tomatoes, and slit green chilli. Sauté for a few seconds until the tomatoes begin to soften. -
Cook the Dal
After sautéing, add the soaked moong dal along with salt, turmeric powder, garam masala, and enough water to cover the dal. Stir everything together, then cover the pressure cooker with its lid and place the weight on top. -
Pressure Cook
Cook the dal on medium heat for about 3 to 4 whistles. Then, reduce the heat to low and allow the dal to cook for another 10 minutes. This ensures the dal becomes soft and absorbs the flavors of the spices. -
Release the Pressure
After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the pressure has been fully released, open the pressure cooker. -
Finish the Tadka
Stir in the freshly chopped coriander leaves and squeeze in the juice of one lemon to add a fresh, tangy flavor to the dal. -
Prepare the Seasoning (Tadka)
In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 2 dry red chillies. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until the cumin seeds start to crackle. Pour this hot seasoning over the cooked dal to infuse it with a rich, aromatic flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Dhaba Style Green Moong Dal Tadka hot, paired with warm roti or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra flavor: You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with cumin seeds in the seasoning for a more authentic dhaba-style taste.
- Spicier version: If you prefer a spicier dal, add more green chillies or a dash of red chilli powder to the base.
- Consistency: Adjust the water in the dal to achieve your preferred consistency, whether thicker or more soupy.
- Vegan Option: Replace ghee with oil for a vegan-friendly version.
This green moong dal is an excellent protein-packed dish for vegetarians, and the perfect addition to your lunch menu. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the warmth of a true dhaba experience at home!
