Drumstick Dal Soup Recipe
Drumstick Dal Soup is a nourishing and hearty South Indian-inspired dish that brings together the goodness of drumsticks (moringa) and green moong dal (whole mung beans), offering a rich blend of flavors and essential nutrients. Known for their ability to purify the blood, reduce acne, and even help in controlling blood sugar levels, drumsticks are a true superfood. This comforting soup not only makes for an excellent dinner choice but also provides a variety of minerals and antioxidants essential for a balanced diet. If you are looking for a simple, healthy, and satisfying meal, this is the perfect recipe.
About Drumsticks
Drumsticks are a staple in South Indian cuisine, often used in sambar and other traditional dishes. Packed with high amounts of calcium, iron, and essential vitamins, drumsticks support various health benefits, including promoting healthy skin, regulating blood glucose levels, and enhancing digestion. When paired with lentils, such as moong dal, the flavors combine beautifully to create a hearty soup that is both nourishing and delicious.
Cuisine:
South Indian
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Drumsticks | 2 pieces |
| Green Moong Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup (adjust as needed) |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Tomato | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon or to taste |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Serves:
4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Protein | ~9g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~8g |
| Fat | ~1g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
| Calcium | ~45mg |
| Iron | ~2mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by chopping the onion and tomato into large chunks. Cut the drumsticks into small, bite-sized pieces. Wash the green moong dal thoroughly with water and set it aside. -
Cook the Dal:
In a pressure cooker, combine the moong dal, chopped onion, tomato, minced garlic, turmeric powder, cumin powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Add about 1 cup of water or more if necessary to adjust the consistency of the soup. Secure the lid and cook the mixture on medium heat for 3 whistles. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally. -
Cook the Drumsticks:
In a separate pot, add the chopped drumstick pieces and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the drumsticks become tender. -
Extract the Drumstick Pulp:
Once the drumsticks are cooked and tender, use a spoon to scoop out the pulp. Discard any fibrous bits and keep the soft, cooked pulp aside. -
Blend the Dal and Drumstick Mixture:
After the dal is cooked, blend it along with the drumstick pulp in a blender until smooth. You may add a little more water at this stage to achieve your desired soup consistency. -
Strain the Soup:
For a silky smooth texture, strain the blended soup through a fine sieve to remove any solids. This step ensures a smooth and velvety texture for the soup. -
Adjust Seasonings:
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. -
Serve:
Serve the warm Drumstick Dal Soup immediately, paired with crispy fried bread slices for a delightful contrast in texture. For an added touch, serve with freshly baked garlic bread for a comforting meal on a chilly winter night.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Drumstick Dal Soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or fried bread slices to make the meal even more satisfying.
- For a more filling meal, serve with steamed rice or roti on the side.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for an added burst of flavor and color.
Tips:
- You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if you prefer a thinner soup.
- For a richer taste, you can temper the soup with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies in ghee or oil before serving.
- If you’re looking for extra protein, you can add a few cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu to the soup before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with the goodness of drumsticks and lentils, this soup is full of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s a great option for anyone looking to boost their immune system, improve digestion, or regulate blood sugar levels.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this soup comes together in no time, making it a perfect dinner choice after a long day.
- Comforting & Satisfying: The warm, savory flavors of this soup, especially when paired with crispy bread, make it an ideal dish for cold evenings.
Enjoy this wholesome Drumstick Dal Soup as a part of your regular dinner rotation, or serve it on special occasions to impress your loved ones with its health benefits and delicious flavors!
