Moong Dal Breakfast Recipe (Healthy Moong Dal Chilla Style Breakfast)
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and choosing the right breakfast can set the tone for your energy, focus, and overall well-being. In Indian households, traditional breakfasts are not only filling but also nutritionally balanced. One such wholesome and time-tested option is Moong Dal Breakfast, made using split green gram (moong dal).
Moong dal is light on the stomach, rich in protein, and easy to digest, making it an ideal ingredient for a healthy morning meal. Whether prepared as chilla, dosa-style pancakes, or soft savory cakes, moong dal breakfast recipes are popular among health-conscious people, children, and elders alike. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, weight-management diets, and anyone looking for a nutritious alternative to refined flour breakfasts.
Why Choose Moong Dal for Breakfast?
Moong dal is considered one of the healthiest lentils in Indian cooking. It provides long-lasting energy without making you feel heavy. Unlike fried or sugary breakfasts, moong dal keeps you full for longer and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Key Benefits:
- High in plant-based protein
- Rich in fiber, iron, and magnesium
- Easy to digest compared to other dals
- Gluten-free and naturally vegan
- Keeps you full and energized
Ingredients
For Batter
- 1 cup yellow moong dal (split, without skin)
- 2 cups water (for soaking)
- 1 inch ginger
- 1 green chilli (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Flavoring
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
For Cooking
- Oil or ghee as required
Preparation Method
Step 1: Soak the Moong Dal
Wash the moong dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 4–6 hours or overnight. Soaking helps in easy grinding and improves digestibility.
Step 2: Grind the Batter
Drain the soaked dal and grind it with ginger, green chilli, and a little water into a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to dosa or pancake batter—not too thick, not too runny.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Transfer the batter to a bowl. Add chopped onion, coriander leaves, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, cumin seeds, hing, and salt. Mix well.
How to Make Moong Dal Breakfast (Chilla Style)
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick or cast-iron tawa on medium flame. Lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
Step 2: Pour the Batter
Take one ladle of batter and spread it gently in a circular motion to make a medium-thick pancake.
Step 3: Cook Properly
Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges. Cook on medium flame until the bottom turns golden and crisp.
Step 4: Flip and Cook
Flip the chilla and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Remove from pan and repeat with remaining batter.
Variations of Moong Dal Breakfast
1. Vegetable Moong Dal Chilla
Add grated carrot, capsicum, spinach, or bottle gourd to increase nutrition and taste.
2. Stuffed Moong Dal Chilla
Stuff with paneer, mashed potato, or sautéed vegetables for a filling breakfast.
3. Moong Dal Dosa
Ferment the batter slightly for 6–8 hours for a soft and fluffy dosa-style texture.
4. Jain Version
Skip onion and hing, and add grated bottle gourd or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Moong dal breakfast tastes best when served hot with:
- Green chutney
- Coconut chutney
- Tomato ketchup
- Plain curd or mint raita
It also pairs well with a cup of hot tea or herbal infusion.
Tips for Perfect Moong Dal Breakfast
- Always soak dal properly for smooth batter
- Do not add too much water while grinding
- Cook on medium flame to avoid raw taste
- Use ghee for richer flavor
- Add vegetables only after squeezing excess water
Nutritional Value (Approximate)
- Protein: Supports muscle health and satiety
- Fiber: Improves digestion
- Low Fat: Ideal for weight management
- Complex Carbohydrates: Sustained energy
This makes moong dal breakfast suitable for diabetics, fitness enthusiasts, and growing children.
Why This is an Ideal Breakfast Recipe
Moong dal breakfast recipes are quick, customizable, and extremely nourishing. Unlike packaged cereals or bread-based breakfasts, this homemade option is free from preservatives and refined flour. It supports gut health, keeps hunger away for hours, and fits perfectly into Indian dietary habits.
Conclusion
Moong Dal Breakfast is a simple yet powerful way to start your day on a healthy note. With minimal ingredients and maximum nutrition, this recipe is perfect for daily consumption. Whether you make it plain or loaded with vegetables, moong dal breakfast will always be a reliable and satisfying choice for your family.
Try this recipe once, and it is sure to become a regular part of your morning routine.
Leave a Reply