Lentils are considered extremely beneficial for health, but eating the same type of dal every day can make its taste feel dull. In such a situation, you can enjoy both taste and nutrition by preparing lentils in a new style. Lentils are an essential part of almost every household in the Indian kitchen. They're considered a good source of nutrition along with taste, while however, many people get bored of eating the same type of dal every day, especially children. By making dal in a slightly different way, it can be made even more delicious. This changes the taste of the food and can also increase the desire to eat lentils.
Nutritional Profile and Benefits of Lentils
Lentils contain protein, fiber, iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, and many essential vitamins and minerals. Regular and balanced consumption of lentils can help provide necessary nutrition to the body, maintain the digestive system, and keep the stomach full for a long time. The good thing is that many quick and delicious dishes can also be prepared from different lentils. Let us know from which lentils tasty dishes can be made and what things should be kept in mind while making them.
1. Moong Dal Cheela
To prepare this, soak moong dal for 4 to 5 hours and then grind it. Prepare a batter by adding onion, green chili, coriander, and light spices. Bake the cheela on a tawa with less oil. This is a breakfast rich in protein and fiber, which can help in keeping the stomach full for a long time and giving energy to the body. It's an excellent way to start the day with a high-protein meal that's both light and satisfying.
2. Masoor Dal Soup
Boil masoor dal with tomatoes, carrots, garlic, and light spices. Then blend it and cook it again for a few minutes. This is a light, nutritious, and easily digestible dish. It provides a good amount of protein, iron, and fiber, which can become a part of a balanced diet. This soup is particularly beneficial for those looking for a comforting yet healthy meal option that's easy on the stomach.
3. Chana Dal Tikki
Soak chana dal and boil it lightly before grinding. Mix in onion, green coriander, spices, and a little gram flour (besan) to make tikkis. Bake them on a tawa with less oil. This delicious snack is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a better option for light evening hunger, while it offers a crunchy texture and savory taste without the need for deep frying.
4. Mix Dal Khichdi
Cook moong, masoor, and tur dal along with rice, carrots, peas, and light spices in a pressure cooker. Serve it with a light tempering of ghee, while this is a balanced meal in which protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and many essential nutrients are found together. It's a complete meal that's easy to prepare and provides comprehensive nourishment to the body.
5. Urad Dal Dosa
Soak urad dal and rice, then grind them and let the batter ferment. After this, make thin dosas on a tawa and bake them. Serve it with sambar and coconut chutney. This is a protein-rich and delicious breakfast that can help in maintaining energy for a long time. The fermentation process also adds to its nutritional value and makes it a favorite across various age groups.
Important Tips for Preparation
It's considered better to soak most lentils for a few hours before cooking, as this helps them cook faster and makes them easier to digest, while while making dal dishes, avoid using excessive oil, ghee, and spices. The nutritional value can be increased by adding fresh vegetables. If someone has kidney or other health-related problems, it's better to take the advice of a doctor or dietitian regarding the quantity and type of dal to be consumed.