Moong Dal Chilla: A Healthy and Delicious Breakfast Delight

Moong Dal Chilla, a savory Indian pancake made from ground moong dal (yellow split gram), is a popular and nutritious dish that is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it’s not only easy to prepare but also customizable with various fillings and toppings. Whether you prefer it plain or stuffed with veggies, this dish can be made in a jiffy, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and filling meal.

Here’s how you can make your own Moong Dal Chilla at home:

Ingredients:

For the Chilla Batter:

• 1 cup moong dal (yellow split gram)
• 1 green chili (optional, finely chopped)
• 1-inch piece of ginger (finely chopped or grated)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed to make a smooth batter)

For the Filling (Optional):

• 1/2 cup finely chopped vegetables (carrot, spinach, bell peppers, or onions)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• Salt to taste

For Cooking:

• 1-2 tablespoons oil (or ghee for a richer flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Moong Dal

1. Rinse the moong dal thoroughly under running water to remove any dust or impurities.
2. Soak the dal in water for about 3-4 hours or overnight for best results. If you’re in a hurry, you can soak it for 30 minutes in warm water.

Step 2: Make the Chilla Batter

1. After soaking, drain the water and transfer the moong dal to a blender or food processor.
2. Add a little water, green chilies, ginger, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and salt to the dal.
3. Blend everything into a smooth batter, similar in consistency to pancake batter. You can adjust the water quantity to achieve the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but thick enough to hold shape when cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, mix the chopped vegetables, coriander leaves, red chili powder, and salt. This step is optional, but adding these vegetables enhances the flavor and nutritional value of the chilla.

Step 4: Cooking the Moong Dal Chilla

1. Heat a non-stick pan or tawa on medium heat. Once hot, drizzle a little oil or ghee to grease the surface.
2. Pour a ladle full of the moong dal batter onto the pan, spreading it out into a circular shape, just like a pancake.
3. If you’re using a filling, sprinkle the chopped vegetables on top of the batter while it’s still soft.
4. Let the chilla cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown.
5. Flip the chilla gently using a spatula and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve the Moong Dal Chilla hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or a side of yogurt.
• You can also roll it up with some veggies or make it into a wrap for a quick lunch or snack.

Tips for the Perfect Moong Dal Chilla:

• Soaking the dal: The longer you soak the moong dal, the smoother and fluffier the chillas will be. Aim for at least 2-3 hours of soaking.
• Customizing the batter: You can add spices like asafoetida (hing), garam masala, or ajwain (carom seeds) to the batter for added flavor.
• Vegetable fillings: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even grated cheese can be added for extra flavor.
• Make it crispy: If you prefer a crispy texture, spread the batter thinly and use a little extra oil or ghee while cooking.

Nutritional Benefits of Moong Dal Chilla:

• High in Protein: Moong dal is a rich source of plant-based protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
• Rich in Fiber: The fiber content helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer, making it a great option for weight management.
• Low in Calories: It is a low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, especially for those looking to manage their weight.
• Packed with Nutrients: Moong dal is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like folate, potassium, iron, and magnesium.

Variations of Moong Dal Chilla:

1. Spinach Moong Dal Chilla: Add finely chopped spinach to the batter for added iron and fiber.
2. Paneer Stuffed Chilla: Fill the chilla with grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a protein-packed version.
3. Masala Moong Dal Chilla: Add a pinch of chaat masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder to the batter for a more flavorful taste.

Moong Dal Chilla is not just a delicious and wholesome meal but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a variety of fillings, it’s sure to become a regular addition to your breakfast table!