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Methi Dal ( Menthikura Pappu)

 Methi Dal ( Menthikura Pappu)



A wholesome , yet simple dish filled with nutrition and flavour is this Methi Dal. Nothing tastes better than having hot rice, Methi Dal and a good dollop of ghee with, of course, a helping of pickle. The   combination of the slightly bitter Methi leaves and the sweetness of Tur Dal ( Kandi Pappu) makes this dish very delicious. It is quick to make and is loved by people of all ages.

This dish can be made with many variations - Tur Dal, Moon Dal or Masoor Dal can be used and Methi Leaves can be replaced by Spinach or other leafy greens ( Palakura or Thota Kura). All taste equally delicious.

Tur Dal is a great way to include protein in your diet. It also is a power house of healthy carbs and is said to promote weight loss. This Dal is an integral part of Indian menus all over the country.

Methi leaves is known for its numerous health benefits. It is a strong anti oxidant, promotes bone health and heart health and is said to prevent anaemia.


Ingredients:

1 Bunch Methi Leaves

1 Cup Tur Dal ( Kandi Pappu) - ( Washed and soaked in 4 Cups of water for about 20 Minutes)

1 Tomato

Salt to Taste

1/2 Tsp Turmeric Powder

1 Tbsp Oil

2 Tbsps Ghee


For the tempering:

1/2 Tsp Mustard Seeds

4 Dry Red Chillies

1 Sprig Curry Leaves

4 Cloves Garlic ( Crushed)

1/4 Tsp Hing ( Asafoetida)


Let's get started:

Wash the Methi Leaves thoroughly in running water. Cut finely into pieces. 

In a pressure pan, heat 1 Tbsp Oil and add the finely chopped Methi leaves in it. Add the salt and Turmeric powder and fry on low flame till the leaves are well wilted and cooked well. 

To the same pressure pan, add the washed and soaked Tur Dal and  the whole Tomato, with four cups of water and pressure cook for four to five whistles. 

Once the pressure subsides, mash the tomato and the Dal well and check for salt. Add if necessary.

In the small pan, add the Ghee and heat. Add the ingredients for tempering and when they stop spluttering, add them to the Dal in the Pressure pan.

Cook for a few minutes till the Dal comes to a boil and thickens slightly to your desired consistency.

Delicious Methi Dal is ready. This is a great dish to whip up when you need something wholesome and tasty in a jiffy.

Savour with rice or roti.



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