Moong Dal Ghughra Recipe (Gujiya/Karanji)
A Delightful North Indian Snack
This delectable Moong Dal Ghughra, also known as Gujiya or Karanji, is a traditional North Indian snack that perfectly balances the savory filling of spiced green moong dal with a flaky, golden pastry. Ideal for festivals such as Diwali and Holi, or simply as a delightful tea-time treat, these crispy dumplings are sure to impress your family and friends with their rich flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Vivatta Maida (All-Purpose Flour) | 2 cups |
Ghee | 1/2 cup |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Water | For kneading |
Sunflower Oil | For deep frying |
Green Moong Dal (Whole) | 2 cups (soaked and steamed) |
Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon (coarsely pounded) |
Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon (coarsely pounded) |
Sesame Seeds (Til) | 1 teaspoon |
Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Green Chillies | 2 (finely chopped) |
Ginger | 1 inch (grated) |
Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 Ghughra) |
---|---|
Calories | Approx. 180-220 |
Protein | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
Total Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g |
Sugars | 1 g |
Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time
Activity | Time (minutes) |
---|---|
Preparation | 60 |
Cooking | 30 |
Total Time | 90 |
Servings
Serving Size | Servings |
---|---|
1 Ghughra | 4 |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
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Soak the Moong Dal: Begin by soaking the green moong dal in 2 cups of water for about 3 to 4 hours. Once the dal is softened, drain any excess water and set aside.
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Cook the Dal: Using a pressure cooker or a steamer, cook the soaked dal until it becomes soft and tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
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Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a non-stick pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the coarsely pounded cumin seeds, fennel seeds, sesame seeds, and asafoetida (hing). Allow these ingredients to crackle, releasing their aromatic flavors.
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Combine the Filling: Stir in the cooked green moong dal along with the sugar, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, finely chopped green chillies, grated ginger, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Allow this mixture to cool, then divide it into 20 equal portions and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dough
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Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Vivatta maida, ghee, and salt. Using your fingers, work the ghee into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
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Knead the Dough: Gradually sprinkle water onto the crumbly mixture, using your hands to push the dough from the sides toward the center. Add just enough water to form a firm dough ball without making it soggy. Knead well for a few minutes until smooth and pliable.
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Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for about 15-20 minutes, covered with a damp cloth.
Step 3: Assemble the Ghughra
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Roll Out the Dough: Once rested, divide the dough into 20 small portions. Roll each portion into a circle approximately 3 inches in diameter.
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Fill the Circles: Place a teaspoon of the moong dal filling onto one half of the rolled-out circle. Dip your fingers in water and lightly wet the edges of the circle.
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Form the Ghughra: Carefully fold the dough over to create a semi-circle, ensuring that the filling is enclosed. Press the edges together to seal securely, and twist the edges to create a decorative shape if desired.
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Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining dough and filling portions. If you have a calzone maker, feel free to use it for easier and quicker assembly.
Step 4: Fry the Ghughra
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Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, preheat sunflower oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of dough dropped in sizzles immediately.
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Fry Until Golden: Carefully slide the ghughras into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the Moong Dal Ghughra hot, accompanied by fresh green chutney and steaming chai for an authentic tea-time experience. These delightful snacks are perfect for festive occasions or as a savory treat any day.
Indulge in the crispy, flavorful goodness of Moong Dal Ghughra, and share the joy of this delightful North Indian snack with family and friends. Whether for a festive celebration or a cozy evening at home, these treats are sure to be a hit!