Dal is one of the most frequently cooked dishes in Indian kitchens. In fact, mention Indian classic food and one of the first things to strike our mind will, perhaps, be dal. And there’s no one dal that is more popular than the other. While on one hand, Dal Makhani is made primarily with the sabut urad dal along with a host of ingredients, spells indulgence, the simple Moong Dal is all about comfort.
Then there’s the Panchmel Dal, a mix of different dals that is everything tasty and wholesome. There are different varieties to render distinct flavours to the palate. Many people also love to relish a bowl of leftover dal the next day, and that too in different forms. One can also break leftover rotis into small pieces and mix them with dal. There are so many other ways to reuse leftover dal in some of the most delicious ways.
Just in case you have someone in the family who is a fussy eater, who would just not stand seeing leftover dal served to them, we have some amazing ideas to turn your dal into some stellar dishes, and arrive at something completely new. From dal pakora and paratha to patties, these dishes will not only save your time and effort, but will also break the monotony of having the same dish over and over again. Here’re three recipes you can try.
1. Urad Dal Paratha
While you can always make it with fresh urad dal, parathas can take in anything and everything for stuffing, and is a great way to use leftovers. This simple and easy recipe requires a handful of herbs and spices including kasuri methi, onion, garlic, ginger and chillies, along with urad dal. This recipe uses boiled urad dal but you can use your leftover dal as well. Simply knead wheat dough along with leftover dal and add the spices and herbs. Now, heat a roti tawa and roll the paratha and cook. Serve with chutney, dahi or achaar and relish. Sounds delicious, isn’t it?
2. Lentil Patties
We all know about crispy and crunchy dal pakoras. But ever thought how you can also turn them into dal patties? These crispy and delicious patties can be made with bare minimum ingredients, as all you need is leftover dal, egg, carrot, parsley, breadcrumbs, salt, and curry powder. You can enjoy these patties as your tea-time snack.
3. Lentil Dosa
A South Indian staple, dosa is a favourite of many people. This lentil dosa - originally made with toor and chana dal - can be made with any leftover dal, along with rice, chillies, salt, curry leaves, and more spices and herbs. Also known as Adai, it is a savoury pancake recipe prepared mainly with a combination of lentils and spices. You can serve it with coconut chutney for your quick and easy morning meal.