Delicious Green Moong Dal: Stovetop & Instant Pot Recipe

Green Moong Dal is a dish that dances on your taste buds, balancing earthy flavors with a hint of spice. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers, filling the air with warmth and comfort. This delightful dish, whether made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

When I whip up Green Moong Dal, it transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I can almost hear her laughter while she stirred the pot, encouraging us to enjoy every spoonful. Perfect for rainy days or family dinners, this dish wraps you in a comforting hug with every bite.

I remember one Sunday when my friends tried my Green Moong Dal for the first time; their delighted expressions were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Moong Dal: Look for fresh, high-quality dal; it should be vibrant green and free from any blemishes.

• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking and better flavor distribution.

• Tomato: Use ripe tomatoes for tanginess; they enhance the overall taste of the dal.

• Ginger-Garlic Paste: Freshly made is best; it brings a robust flavor that elevates the dish.

• Spices (Cumin, Turmeric, Garam Masala): Choose whole spices whenever possible for better flavor; toast them briefly to release their oils.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop finely for garnishing just before serving.

• Water: Ensure you have enough water to achieve your desired consistency; adjust based on preference.

• Salt: Use to taste; start with less and add more as needed during cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep the Base: Start by rinsing 1 cup of green moong dal under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and makes for fluffier dal.

Sauté Aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté 1 chopped onion until golden brown. The kitchen will smell heavenly as the onions caramelize.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in 1 chopped tomato along with 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste. Cook until the tomatoes soften and blend into a sauce-like consistency, around 5 minutes.

Combine Dal and Water: Add your rinsed green moong dal to the pot along with 3 cups of water. Stir in 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and salt to taste.

Cook Until Tender (Stovetop Method): Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the dal is tender but still holds its shape.

Instant Pot Magic (Instant Pot Method): If using an Instant Pot, set it to pressure cook on high for 15 minutes with natural release. Your dal will come out perfectly cooked with minimal effort!

Now you have two fantastic methods at your disposal! Whether you choose stovetop or Instant Pot, you’re in for a treat. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices infuse your kitchen with delightful scents that invite everyone around.

To finish off your Green Moong Dal masterpiece, garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro right before serving! Whether paired with fluffy rice or warm naan bread, each bite will leave you craving more. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the green moong dal for at least two hours, then cook it directly in your stovetop pressure cooker or Instant Pot for the best results. This ensures perfect tenderness and flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Green Moong Dal by adding spices like cumin or turmeric, or even toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition. A dash of lime juice before serving brightens everything up!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Green Moong Dal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Cooking Green Moong Dal brings back memories of my grandmother bustling in the kitchen, sharing her secret spice blends while I eagerly waited for that first delicious bite.

FAQ

What is the best way to soak green moong dal?

Soak green moong dal in water for at least two hours for optimal cooking.

Can I use split green moong dal instead?

Yes, split green moong dal cooks faster but may have a slightly different texture.

Is Green Moong Dal gluten-free?

Absolutely! Green Moong Dal is naturally gluten-free and suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

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Green Moong Dal

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Green Moong Dal is a delightful and nutritious dish that beautifully combines earthy flavors with a touch of spice. Whether prepared on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, this protein-packed meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its vibrant green hue and aromatic spices, Green Moong Dal not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a splash of color to your table. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or warm naan for a comforting experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Green Moong Dal
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 1 ripe Tomato, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• Fresh Cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Rinse the green moong dal under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown.
3. Add the chopped tomato and ginger-garlic paste; cook until the tomatoes soften.
4. Stir in the rinsed dal, water, cumin seeds, turmeric, and salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender.
6. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes with natural release if using an Instant Pot.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Soak the dal for at least two hours prior to cooking for optimal tenderness. - Feel free to add spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or a dash of lime juice before serving for brightness.