By Ujjainee Roy
July 24, 2024
Are you craving something comforting and hearty with your meal? Try a nourishing veggie dal which can keep you full for hours. A lauki dal for instance, is a versatile options as there are several other sources of protein which can be added to it. Let's have a look at the recipe.
– 1 cup yellow moong dal – 1 medium-sized lauki – 1 medium onion – 1-2 green chilies, slit – 1 medium tomato – 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds – 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida – 1 teaspoon ginger – 2-3 garlic cloves, minced – 1 tablespoon oil or ghee – Salt to taste – Fresh coriander leaves – Lemon juice (optional)
Rinse the moong dal thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the dal in water for about 15-20 minutes, which helps in faster cooking. Peel the lauki, remove any seeds, and cut it into small cubes.
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked moong dal, lauki cubes, turmeric powder, and salt. Add enough water (about 3 cups) to cover the ingredients. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for 2-3 whistles on medium heat.
In a separate pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter. Add asafoetida, grated ginger, and minced garlic (if using). Sauté for a minute until the garlic turns golden.
Add the chopped onion and green chilies. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent. If using, add the chopped tomato and cook until it softens and becomes mushy. Pour this tempering over the cooked dal and lauki mixture. Mix well.
Check the seasoning and add salt if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. You can add a dash of lemon juice before serving for a tangy flavor.