Masoor Dal Kebabs Recipe: A Flavorful North Indian Appetizer
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Masoor Dal Kebabs, a delightful vegetarian appetizer, combine the earthy flavors of masoor dal (red lentils) with the comforting texture of mashed potatoes. These crispy, golden kebabs are perfect for a snack or as part of a larger meal. The dish is rich in protein, making it an excellent option for vegetarians seeking a protein-packed bite. Paired with a yogurt dip or raita, Masoor Dal Kebabs will become a crowd favorite in no time!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo), peeled and boiled | 2 medium-sized |
| Masoor Dal (Whole), soaked for 6 hours | 1 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Green Chilli, chopped | 1 small |
| Garlic, chopped | 4 cloves |
| Ginger, chopped | 1-inch piece |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | For frying |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling the potatoes. In a pressure cooker, add the peeled potatoes with 1/4 cup of water and a pinch of salt. Cook them for 4 whistles or until they are soft and fully cooked. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Remove the potatoes, place them in a mixing bowl, and let them cool down slightly before mashing them thoroughly.
Step 2: Cook the Masoor Dal
Next, cook the soaked masoor dal. In the same pressure cooker, add the soaked dal, 2 cups of water, and salt to taste. Pressure cook for 6-8 whistles, until the dal is soft and tender. Once cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally, then drain any excess water. You can save this water for use in dals, soups, or curries for added nutrition.
Step 3: Combine the Dal and Potatoes
Mash the cooked masoor dal coarsely. Add the mashed dal to the cooled potatoes and mix them together thoroughly. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Temper the Spices
In a pan, heat a little sunflower oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds. Next, add the chopped garlic and ginger, sautéing them until they become soft and aromatic. Add the chopped onion and green chili, and sauté until the onions turn translucent and tender.
Step 5: Spice it Up
Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder to the pan. Stir everything well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. Add salt to taste and continue to stir for another 1-2 minutes. This will release the full flavor of the spices.
Step 6: Mix the Potato-Dal Mixture
Add the mashed potato and dal mixture to the pan. Stir gently and allow the spices to coat the mixture evenly. Keep stirring until the mixture binds together and the spices are well incorporated. Let the mixture cool down completely.
Step 7: Shape the Kebabs
Once the mixture has cooled, take small portions of it and shape them into cylindrical or round kebabs. Continue shaping the rest of the mixture in the same way.
Step 8: Fry the Kebabs
Heat a flat skillet or frying pan with 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the kebabs in the pan. Fry them on medium heat, turning them frequently, until they are golden and crispy on all sides. This should take around 6-8 minutes.
Step 9: Serve
Once the kebabs are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve the Masoor Dal Kebabs hot with a side of Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani, Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita, or a simple yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for Perfect Masoor Dal Kebabs:
- Boiling Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are soft and fully cooked before mashing. If the potatoes are not soft enough, the kebabs may not hold their shape properly.
- Dal Consistency: When cooking the masoor dal, ensure it’s soft and tender, but not too watery. The right consistency is essential for shaping the kebabs.
- Spices: Adjust the level of spices according to your preference. You can add more chili powder or garam masala for a spicier kick.
- Shaping Kebabs: If you find it difficult to shape the kebabs, wet your hands with a little water or oil to make the process smoother.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
These Masoor Dal Kebabs are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a vegetarian appetizer or snack. The combination of mashed potatoes and masoor dal creates a soft, flavorful base, while the spices add depth and warmth. Whether you serve them with a tangy yogurt dip or alongside a fragrant biryani, they are sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!
