Dal is a staple in Indian households, known for its affordability, versatility, and rich nutritional value. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, its affordability makes it easy for everyone to buy and use, which is why it is so popular. From the northern to the southern regions of India, dal features in a wide variety of dishes.
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Incorporating dal into breakfast recipes not only adds flavour but also provides a protein-rich start to the day. In this article, let’s explore six easy and delicious breakfast recipes made from different types of dal, offering a wholesome way to enjoy this kitchen essential every morning.
Toor Dal Paratha
Toor dal paratha is a delicious and filling Indian flatbread. The toor dal is cooked and then mashed to a smooth consistency, seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and a touch of garam masala. The dal mixture is stuffed into wheat dough and rolled out into parathas, which are then cooked on a hot griddle with a bit of ghee or oil. The soft, mildly spiced filling makes this paratha an excellent breakfast option that pairs wonderfully with yoghurt or pickle for added flavour.
Yellow Moong Toast
Yellow moong toast is a nutritious and easy-to-make breakfast option. Yellow moong dal is soaked and blended into a smooth batter with green chillies, ginger, and cumin seeds for extra flavour. This batter is spread onto slices of whole wheat bread, and then the bread is shallow-fried until crisp and golden. The result is a crunchy and flavourful toast that provides a good source of protein and fibre, perfect for a quick breakfast or a light snack. It is often served with green chutney or ketchup.
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Urad Dal Appe
Urad dal appe are bite-sized, savoury dumplings that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Made with fermented urad dal batter, appe are lightly spiced with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and chopped vegetables like onions or carrots. The batter is poured into an appe pan and cooked until golden. Urad Dal Appe is often served with coconut chutney or sambar, making it a perfect breakfast that is light yet satisfying.
Chana Dal Dhokla
Chana dal dhokla is a soft, steamed savoury cake made from fermented chana dal batter. The dal is soaked, ground into a batter, and fermented overnight. The batter is seasoned with ginger, green chillies, and a pinch of asafoetida before being steamed until fluffy. Once cooked, the dhokla is tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies for an added layer of flavour. This light and spongy dish is often served with green chutney and makes for a protein-packed breakfast.
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Masoor Dal Dosa
Masoor dal dosa is a crisp and flavourful pancake made with red lentils. The masoor dal is soaked, ground into a smooth batter, and then mixed with rice flour for a thin, crepe-like consistency. The batter is seasoned with salt and sometimes cumin or pepper before being spread onto a hot tawa to make thin dosas. Masoor Dal Dosa is a great gluten-free option for breakfast and pairs well with coconut chutney or tomato chutney for a delicious meal.
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Green Moong Cutlet
Green moong cutlet is a crispy and healthy snack perfect for breakfast. Green moong dal is soaked and then blended with spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, and green chilies. The mixture is shaped into small patties, coated in breadcrumbs, and shallow-fried until golden and crispy on the outside. These cutlets are packed with protein and fibre, making them a nutritious choice to kickstart your day. They can be served with chutney or ketchup for a flavourful breakfast treat.