Description
Moong Dal Chilla is a nutritious and delicious savory pancake made from soaked and blended yellow moong dal, combined with fresh greens and spices. This easy-to-make Indian-inspired dish is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, offering a protein-rich alternative to traditional pancakes. Served hot with condiments like ketchup, green chutney, or yogurt, it blends wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Batter
- 1 cup Split Yellow Lentils (Moong Dal) (soaked for at least 4 hours)
- 1 cup Water (adjust for batter consistency)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 medium Onion (optional, finely chopped)
- 1 cup Chopped Spinach (can substitute with other greens)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro
- 1 small Jalapeno (optional, finely chopped)
Spices & Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (can use ground cumin)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ajwain (Carom Seeds) (can substitute with thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Chilly Powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Flax Seed Powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup Cheese (to melt on top for kids)
- Condiments such as ketchup, green chutney, or yogurt to taste
Instructions
- Soak Lentils: Soak 1 cup of split yellow moong dal in lukewarm water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften and prepare for blending.
- Blend Batter: Drain the soaked lentils and blend them with about 1 cup of water until you achieve a smooth, pourable batter consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the lentil batter with chopped spinach, cilantro, onion, jalapeno, cumin seeds, ajwain, turmeric powder, chili powder, salt, and flax seed powder if using. Adjust the batter consistency with additional water if needed to ensure it pours easily.
- Heat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chillas.
- Cook Chillas: Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot skillet and spread gently into a pancake shape. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges lift and the bottom turns golden brown.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the chilla and cook for another 2 minutes until the other side is golden and cooked through. For kids, sprinkle cheese on top while cooking to melt.
- Serve: Serve the chillas hot with your choice of condiments such as ketchup, green chutney, or yogurt for a delicious and healthy meal.
Notes
- Soaking the dal overnight enhances digestibility and creates a smoother batter.
- Adjust chili powder and jalapeno quantities according to your spice preference.
- Flax seed powder adds extra fiber and omega-3s but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Cheese topping is optional and adds a kid-friendly twist to the recipe.
- Use a non-stick pan and medium heat to prevent sticking and achieve even browning.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
