Pudina Moong Dal Recipe: A Refreshing Twist to Your Everyday Dal
Pudina Moong Dal is a delightful and refreshing variation of the classic moong dal, incorporating the cooling and aromatic flavors of fresh mint. Mint, known for its digestive benefits, lends this dish a unique twist, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for a healthy, high-protein vegetarian lunch, this dish is quick to make and pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian sides. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for something light and flavorful, Pudina Moong Dal is sure to become a family favorite.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein, Vegetarian
Ingredients for Pudina Moong Dal
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal | 1/2 cup |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/4 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Mint (Chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Water | As required |
| Salt | As required |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Potassium | 400mg |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on portion sizes and exact ingredients used.
Instructions for Preparing Pudina Moong Dal
-
Cooking the Moong Dal:
Start by washing the moong dal thoroughly in cold water. In a pressure cooker, add the washed dal, 1 cup of water, and turmeric powder. Close the lid and cook for 2 whistles over medium heat. After the second whistle, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. -
Adjusting Consistency:
Once the pressure has been released, open the pressure cooker and check the consistency of the dal. Add approximately 1-1/2 cups of water to the cooked dal to achieve your desired consistency. Add salt to taste and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it begins to boil, turn off the heat and set the dal aside. -
Preparing the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds. Allow them to crackle for a few seconds. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and let it sizzle for another second. Now, add the chopped fresh mint to the pan and cook for about 10 seconds until it becomes aromatic. -
Adding Red Chili Powder:
Quickly add the red chili powder to the pan and cook for another 10 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the spices. -
Final Mixing:
Pour this aromatic tempering over the cooked moong dal. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Let the dal simmer on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Serving:
Serve the Pudina Moong Dal hot, garnished with a few more mint leaves if desired. This flavorful dal pairs perfectly with a side of Bhindi Masala (Okra), Boondi Raita, and warm Phulkas or steamed rice for a complete North Indian lunch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the red chili powder based on your spice preference. You can also add a little garam masala or coriander powder for extra flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil for a vegan version of this dish.
- Add Protein: For an extra boost of protein, you can add a handful of boiled chickpeas or tofu cubes to the dal once it is cooked.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This Pudina Moong Dal comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weekday lunch.
- Refreshing: The addition of mint adds a refreshing, cool flavor that makes this dal stand out from traditional versions.
- Health Benefits: Moong dal is a rich source of plant-based protein, and the mint enhances digestion, making this dish both nutritious and beneficial for the stomach.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve it with your favorite Indian sides to create a satisfying and balanced meal thatβs perfect for any occasion.
Pudina Moong Dal is the perfect dish to bring a burst of flavor and freshness to your daily meals. With its delightful minty twist, this recipe will keep you coming back for more!
