Moong dal chilla, also known as moong dal cheela or moong dal pancake, is a popular and nutritious Indian dish. It is made from ground moong dal, or split yellow lentils, which are soaked, ground into a batter, and then cooked on a griddle. Moong dal chilla is not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and various nutrients. In this article, we will explore the recipe, the health benefits, and some variations of moong dal chilla.
Recipe:
To make moong dal chilla, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup moong dal (split yellow lentils), soaked for 3-4 hours
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green chili, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Oil or ghee for cooking
Here are the steps to prepare moong dal chilla:
Drain the soaked moong dal and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add a little water and grind it to a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to that of a pancake batter.
Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl and add chopped onions, green chili, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Heat a non-stick griddle or a flat pan over medium heat. Spread a ladleful of the batter on the griddle and gently spread it in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges of the chilla and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom turns golden brown.
Flip the chilla using a spatula and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Press gently with the spatula to ensure even cooking.
Once both sides are cooked to a golden brown color, transfer the chilla to a plate.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter to make more chillas.
Serve hot moong dal chillas with chutney, yogurt, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
Moong dal chilla offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Here are some key benefits:
High in protein: Moong dal is a rich source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is essential for cell repair, muscle growth, and overall health.
Rich in fiber: The lentils used in moong dal chilla are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Low in fat: Moong dal chilla is relatively low in fat compared to other fried snacks. It can be cooked with minimal oil or ghee, making it a healthier option.
Packed with vitamins and minerals: Moong dal is a good source of vitamins like B-complex vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions, including energy production and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Variations:
While the basic moong dal chilla recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
Vegetable chilla: Add grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the batter for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor.
Paneer (cottage cheese) stuffed chilla: Spread the batter on the griddle, place a small amount
 stuffed chilla: Spread the batter on the griddle, place a small amount){kind=link}