Moong Dal Chilla: A Delicious and Nutritious Pancake
Are you in search of a healthy yet delicious option for breakfast or snacks? Look no further! The moong dal chilla is a savory pancake made from split yellow moong dal that not only tastes great but is also packed with protein and essential nutrients. In this blog post, we will explore how to prepare this delightful dish with ease and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
To whip up the perfect moong dal chilla, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup split yellow moong dal (soaked for 4-6 hours)
- 1-2 green chilies (adjust according to taste)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for blending
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Optional Ingredients:
- Chopped onions
- Chopped tomatoes
- Chopped coriander leaves
- Spinach or other greens (for added nutrition)
Timing
The beauty of moong dal chilla is its quick preparation. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes (excluding soaking time)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes – a perfect solution for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Moong Dal Batter
Drain the soaked moong dal and transfer it to a blender. Add green chilies, ginger, cumin seeds, and salt. Add a little water and blend until you achieve a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
Step 2: Add Optional Ingredients
If you choose to include any optional ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, or greens, fold them into the batter at this stage.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat and grease it lightly with oil or ghee.
Step 4: Cook the Chilla
Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the hot pan and spread it in a circular motion to form a pancake. Drizzle a little oil around the edges. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until you see bubbles forming on the surface.
Step 5: Flip and Cook
Carefully flip the chilla using a spatula, and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove the chilla from the pan and serve hot with green chutney or yogurt!
Nutritional Information
This is a quick overview of the nutritional content for one serving of moong dal chilla (approx. 2 chillas):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 1g
It’s a wholesome dish that helps you feel energized throughout the day!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
You can enhance the nutritional profile of your moong dal chilla with the following alternatives:
- Whole Grains: Blend in a bit of whole wheat or oats into the moong dal batter for added fiber.
- Greens: Incorporate finely chopped kale or spinach into your batter for extra vitamins.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as turmeric or black pepper to add flavor and health benefits.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your moong dal chilla experience with these serving suggestions:
- With Chutney: Pair with mint or coconut chutney for a flavorful dip.
- Stuffed: Try stuffing your chilla with paneer or veggies for a more filling meal.
- As a Wrap: Use a chilla as a wrap and fill it with fresh salads and toppings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too Thick Batter: Ensure your batter isn’t too thick; it should be pourable for easy spreading.
- Not Preheating the Pan: A well-heated pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Overcooking: Don’t leave the chilla on the pan too long; it can turn tough instead of crispy.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers or wish to meal prep, here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on a skillet to maintain crispness before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the uncooked batter for up to a month. Thaw and use when needed!
Conclusion
In summary, the moong dal chilla is an easy and nutritious option that you can whip up any time of the day. With its unique flavors, numerous health benefits, and versatility, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking!
We invite you to try this recipe and share your feedback in the comments section. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates and healthy recipes!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses moong dal and does not require any wheat flour!
Can I add other vegetables to the batter?
Absolutely! Adding grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can elevate the taste and nutrition of the chilla.
What can I serve with moong dal chilla?
They pair well with yogurt, pickles, or any chutney of your choice for a complete meal experience.
Is moong dal chilla suitable for kids?
Yes! Moong dal is high in protein and is a healthy snack option for children. Just make sure to adjust spices according to their taste!
