Moong Masoor di Dhal
Red Lentil and Split Mung Lentil Dhal
Introduction:
Moong Masoor di Dhal is a rich, comforting dish combining two of the most beloved lentils in Indian cuisine – split red lentils and split mung beans. This dhal is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty vegetarian meal, with the perfect balance of flavors and spices. Whether you are new to lentil-based dishes or a seasoned cook, this dish is an easy and delightful recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. It can be made as mild or as spicy as you prefer, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. The soft texture of the lentils, combined with the fragrant spices, creates a rich and flavorful stew-like dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, flatbreads, or even as a standalone meal. Ideal for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe offers both satisfaction and nutrition in every bite.
Nutritional Information:
This dish is naturally packed with protein from the lentils, offering a great source of plant-based protein that is perfect for vegetarians. The addition of spices, especially turmeric and cumin, not only enhances the flavor but also offers various health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and digestion support.
Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Split Red Lentils (washed) | 100g |
| Split Mung Beans (washed) | 100g |
| Water | 900ml |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Oil or Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Red Chilis | 2-3 whole |
| Bay Leaf | 1 leaf |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 medium |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Ground Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Fresh Chili (chopped) | 1 small |
| Garam Masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Allergen Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian and does not contain dairy, making it suitable for most dietary preferences.
- The recipe contains cumin, garam masala, and chili which may trigger sensitivities in some individuals.
- Butter or ghee can be replaced with plant-based oils for those following a vegan diet.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegetarians or those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, this dish can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: Can be made dairy-free by using vegetable oil or ghee instead of butter.
- Vegan: Simply substitute the butter with vegetable oil to make this dish fully vegan.
Preparation Instructions:
-
Prepare the Lentils:
Place the washed split red lentils into a large pan. Add 900ml of water and 1 teaspoon of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, skim off any froth that appears on the surface. -
Add Mung Beans:
Once the froth has been removed, add the washed split mung beans into the pan. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the lentils and mung beans are soft and tender. You can test the texture by pressing the lentils between your fingers – they should break apart easily. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. -
Fry the Spices:
While the lentils are cooking, heat the oil (or butter) in a frying pan over medium heat. Gently pierce the red chilies with a fork and add them to the hot oil along with a bay leaf and cumin seeds. Allow the seeds to sizzle and pop in the oil, then remove the chilies and set them aside for garnishing later. -
Cook the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the fried spices. Fry them gently until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. -
Prepare the Masala Paste:
Add the chopped tomatoes, grated ginger, turmeric, and chopped chili to the frying pan. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reduces into a thick, dry paste, which should take around 10 minutes. -
Combine Lentils and Masala:
Take a ladleful of the cooked lentils and add it to the masala paste in the frying pan. Stir the mixture together, ensuring the flavors are well combined. Once the masala and lentils are mixed, return all of the lentil mixture to the frying pan and stir. -
Adjust the Consistency:
The dhal should now have the consistency of a thick soup or stew. If the dhal is too thick, simply add a little boiling water to achieve the desired consistency. -
Add the Final Spices:
Stir in the garam masala and freshly chopped coriander. These will add the final layers of flavor to the dish. -
Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with the reserved whole red chilies. Serve hot, accompanied by rice, naan, or flatbreads, and enjoy the hearty, flavorful dhal!
Advice & Tips:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version of this dhal, feel free to reduce the amount of chili used in the recipe. Alternatively, for those who enjoy a spicy kick, increase the chili and add extra heat with ground chili powder.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, always use freshly ground cumin seeds and garam masala. The aromas they release when toasted in oil are unparalleled and add depth to your dhal.
- Make It a Meal: Moong Masoor di Dhal is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re serving it as part of a larger spread, it pairs wonderfully with Indian breads like roti, naan, or even steamed basmati rice. Add a side of cool raita or a fresh salad to balance out the heat and spices.
Conclusion:
Moong Masoor di Dhal is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. With its rich textures and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or simply want a comforting meal, this dhal is a fantastic choice. Enjoy it as part of a complete Indian meal or as a stand-alone comfort food – either way, it’s bound to be a hit.
With its ease of preparation and wholesome ingredients, Moong Masoor di Dhal offers both comfort and nourishment in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire!
