Oats Ven Pongal Recipe: A Wholesome and Flavorful South Indian Delight
Oats Ven Pongal is a modern twist on the traditional South Indian dish, Ven Pongal. Made with oats instead of rice, this dish offers a quick, healthy, and delicious option for breakfast or dinner. The creamy texture, infused with the goodness of ghee, ginger, black pepper, and curry leaves, makes it a flavorful treat. Perfect for those looking to reduce their rice intake without compromising on taste, this Oats Ven Pongal is a wholesome and satisfying dish. Here’s how to make it, along with a side of coconut chutney to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1 cup |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning Ingredients | |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts (quartered) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Ginger (1-inch piece) | 1-inch |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (coarsely pounded) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Yellow Moong Dal
To start preparing the Oats Ven Pongal, first cook the yellow split moong dal. Use a pressure cooker for the fastest results, although you can also use a saucepan if preferred.
- Rinse the moong dal under running water and place it in the pressure cooker.
- Add 3/4 cup of water to the dal and cook it under pressure. Close the lid, place the weight on, and wait for one whistle.
- Once you hear the first whistle, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Keep the cooked dal aside for the next step.
Step 2: Roast and Cook the Oats
While the dal is cooking, you can start preparing the oats.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat.
- Add the oats to the pan and sauté them for a few minutes until they become lightly toasted. This will give them a nice flavor.
- Add 3/4 cup of water to the oats and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oats are fully cooked, stir in the cooked moong dal and add salt to taste.
- Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat while you prepare the seasoning.
Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning
The seasoning adds depth and flavor to the dish, and it’s a crucial step in making the Oats Ven Pongal truly special.
- In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat.
- Add the cashew nuts and sauté them until they turn golden brown.
- As the cashew nuts begin to change color, add the finely chopped ginger, coarsely pounded black pepper, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing).
- Stir the mixture for a few seconds to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the seasoning is aromatic and the cashews are golden, turn off the heat.
Step 4: Combine the Oats, Moong Dal, and Seasoning
- Pour the prepared seasoning mixture into the cooked oats and moong dal.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the seasoning evenly coats the oats and dal mixture.
- Allow the flavors to mingle on low heat for a couple of minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
The Oats Ven Pongal can be served hot, garnished with additional curry leaves or cashews for added flavor. For a traditional South Indian touch, serve it alongside a bowl of South Indian Coconut Chutney and enjoy a wholesome breakfast or dinner. This dish can also be part of your Pongal festival celebrations, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious and festive meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Oats Ven Pongal:
- Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a slightly thicker or soupier consistency, adjust the water accordingly while cooking the oats. Add a little extra water for a softer, more porridge-like texture.
- Spice Variations: If you like your Pongal spicier, you can increase the amount of black pepper or add a green chili to the seasoning for an extra kick.
- Moong Dal Cooking Tip: If using a saucepan to cook the moong dal, keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn’t burn. Stir occasionally, and cook on a medium flame until the dal is soft.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Oats Ven Pongal is a delightful and healthy twist on the traditional Pongal. The inclusion of oats adds fiber and nutrients, while the warm, aromatic seasoning keeps the dish comforting and flavorful. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to try a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative to the usual rice-based Pongal.
Enjoy this dish with your loved ones and bring the authentic flavors of South Indian cuisine to your kitchen in a healthier way!
