Moong Dal Chilla (Savory Lentil Pancakes) Recipe
Moong Dal Chilla is a savory Indian pancake made from soaked and ground yellow split lentils, mixed with fresh vegetables and spices. This nutritious and protein-rich dish is perfect for a wholesome breakfast or light meal, served hot with chutney or sauces.
- Prep Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups split yellow lentils (moong dal)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeno, chopped
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 2 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 tbsp flax seed powder (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cups water (for batter)
- Oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Soak the Lentils: Wash the moong dal thoroughly under running water, then soak it in lukewarm water overnight or for at least 4 hours to soften the lentils.
- Grind the Batter: Drain the soaked lentils and grind them with a little water until you achieve a smooth batter of thick pouring consistency.
- Mix the Ingredients: Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl. Add chopped spinach, cilantro, flax seed powder, chopped onions, and jalapeno. Stir in cumin seeds, ajwain, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Add water as needed to ensure the batter is pourable, similar to dosa batter.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a skillet or crepes pan over medium flame to prepare for cooking the chilla.
- Cook the Chilla: Pour a ladleful of batter onto the center of the heated skillet and spread it evenly in a round shape like a pancake. Drizzle oil around the edges and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until brown spots appear and the chilla is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the chilla from the pan and serve hot with ketchup, mayonnaise, or green chutney for dipping.
Notes
- For a gluten-free meal, Moong Dal Chilla is an excellent choice.
- Flax seed powder is optional but adds extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Adjust the spiciness by controlling the amount of jalapeno and chili powder.
- Ensure the batter consistency is pourable but not too thin to get perfect pancakes.
- You can add other finely chopped vegetables for extra nutrition.
