When it comes to breakfast, variety is important, and adding chillas made from dals to your morning routine is a great way to have healthy meals. Chillas are savoury pancakes from Indian cuisine made with various lentils (dals) and can be seasoned with spices and vegetables. This versatility allows for endless flavour combinations and caters to different dietary needs.
These are gluten-free and high in protein and fibre, making them a great way to start your day. Different dals like moong, urad, and chana can be used to create different textures and flavours. Moong dal chillas are light and fluffy, and besan chillas (made from gram flour) are slightly nutty and denser.
Also, chillas are quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients and cooking time. You can serve it with yoghurt or chutney for extra flavour and nutrition. Trying out different dal chillas will increase your breakfast options, but also your overall diet so start your day right.
Different Nutritious Chillas Made From Dals
Moong Dal Chila
Moong Dal Chila is a lovely pancake made from soaked and ground moong dal (green gram). You can add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or paneer for extra flavour and texture. Since moong dal has a mild flavour it can be paired with any chutney or yoghurt and can be had at any time of the day.
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Chana Dal Chila
Made from soaked chana dal (split chickpeas), it has a slightly coarse texture and a nutty flavour. It is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, which gives it a savoury taste. You can have it plain or with yoghurt.
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Urad Dal Chila
Urad Dal Chila is made from urad dal (black gram) and is soft and fluffy in texture. It is easy to make and can be had in many ways, like plain or with chopped onions, green chillies and coriander leaves for extra flavour. Pair it with tangy chutneys or a simple salad for a complete meal that is filling and tasty.
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Masoor Dal Chila
Masoor Dal Chila is made with red lentils, which gives it a mild and earthy flavour. It is a comforting and nutritious breakfast meal. Red lentils add a pop of colour to your plate, you can add finely chopped veggies, herbs and spices to improve the flavour. This is quick to make and can be a great breakfast option, served with yoghurt or tangy chutney for dipping.
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Toor Dal Chila
Made with toor dal (pigeon peas), Toor Dal Chila has a thick texture making which is different from other dal chillas. This chilli is seasoned with traditional Indian spices like cumin and turmeric. Serve hot with chutney or pickle to relish the savoury taste and have a filling breakfast.
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Mixed Dal Chila
Mixed Dal Chila is a colourful and nutritious chilla made with a combination of dals like moong, chana, urad and masoor. This blend gives you a variety of flavours and textures, the combination of dals enhances the taste and is a great option for those who want to have a complete meal. You can serve it with yoghurt or a fresh salad for a complete breakfast.
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Green Moong Dal Chila
Made with whole green moong dal, Green Moong Dal Chila is a nutritious chilla with the goodness of whole grain. You can fill it with grated cheese or chopped veggies to enhance the flavour. It has a chewy texture and nutty flavour, making it a great addition to your breakfast or brunch. Serve with spicy chutneys for a filling meal that will keep you charged for the day.
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Trying out different chillas made from dals adds to your breakfast options and makes it a healthy and complete meal. Each chilla, whether it is the soft Urad Dal or the hearty Toor Dal, shows the versatility of lentils in Indian cuisine. So, add these nutritious and delicious chillas to your breakfast and have a healthy meal.