Introduction

Hi, I’m Ajay Chopra, and I’m super excited to share my Moringa Dal recipe with you today! This is a very special recipe that I first discovered when I was looking for ways to make our meals healthier without compromising on taste. The day I made this for the first time, my family couldn’t stop talking about how delicious it was, and I knew I had to share it with all of you.

It’s a power-packed dish, loaded with nutrients, and it’s just as tasty as it is healthy. The twist in this recipe is the use of Moringa Drumstick – something I hadn’t used much before, but after trying it in this dal, it became a regular addition to my cooking. You’ll love how simple yet flavorful this dal turns out to be!

 

Ingredients of Moringa Dal

Portion servings: 5-6 pax

Preparation time: 05 mins

Cooking time: 50 mins

• Oil: 2 tbsp
• Jeera (Cumin seeds): 1 tsp
• Garlic (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Ginger (chopped): ½ tbsp
• Onion (chopped): 2 pcs
• Green chili (chopped): 1 tsp
• Tomato (chopped): 2 pcs
• Red chili powder: 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
• Coriander powder: 1 tsp
• Jeera powder: ½ tsp
• Moong dal (soaked): ½ cup
• Masoor dal (soaked): ½ cup
• Water: As required
• Salt: ½ tbsp
• Drumstick/Moringa: 2-3 sticks

 

Instructions of Moringa Dal

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Chop garlic, ginger, onions, green chilies, and tomatoes. Soak moong dal and masoor dal in water for some time. Clean and cut moringa (drumstick) into pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Base

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter. Add chopped garlic and ginger, sauté until golden brown. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Add green chilies and chopped tomatoes, cooking until they turn mushy.

Step 3: Add Spices and Lentils

Mix in red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Stir well to coat the mixture in spices. Add the soaked dals and mix everything together.

Step 4: Cook the Dal

Pour in enough water to cover the lentils. Season with salt and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it cook until the dals turn soft and creamy.

Step 5: Add Moringa

Once the dal is almost done, add the moringa pieces. Cook until the moringa is tender and releases its flavor. Adjust water if needed to get the desired consistency.

Step 6: Prepare the Tadka

Heat oil in a small pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped garlic and dried red chilies, sauté until garlic turns golden. Sprinkle red chili powder and mix quickly.

Step 7: Final Touch & Serving

Pour the tadka over the cooked dal and stir well. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

 

About the Recipe

In this recipe, we use Moringa Drumstick, not just the leaves but the actual fruit, which is also known as a “Drumstick” or “Sahjan ki Phali”. It’s a unique ingredient that makes this dal stand out. Moringa is known for its health benefits, especially for bones and overall well-being, which is why I find it perfect for adding to my meals.

We start by washing and prepping the Moringa drumsticks. After that, the dal is cooked with the drumsticks, and all the flavors meld together beautifully. The first time I made this recipe, I was amazed at how delicious it was – a little spicy, a little tangy, and super nutritious. It’s definitely a dish that everyone in your family will enjoy, from kids to adults!

 

Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to make your Moringa Dal even better:

• Make sure to wash the Moringa drumsticks thoroughly before adding them to the dal.
• Cook the dal on low heat for a few minutes to let all the flavors come together. Don’t rush this step!
• When adding the drumsticks, ensure that they don’t overcook. You want them to hold their shape and not break down completely into the dal.
• For a richer flavor, add a little more ghee or oil to the final tempering (tadka). It will add depth to the taste.
• Don’t skip the second tempering with garlic and dry red chilies! It adds that extra punch to the dal’s flavor.

 

Pairing Guide

This Moringa Dal goes perfectly with plain steamed rice or some roti. If you’re looking for a side dish, a simple cucumber salad or a cooling yogurt-based raita would be a great match.

For drinks, try pairing this dish with a chilled glass of buttermilk or a fresh lime soda. Both drinks will balance the warmth and spice of the dal, making your meal complete!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Moringa Drumstick used for in the recipe?

Moringa Drumstick, also known as Sahjan ki Phali, is used in this recipe to add a unique flavor and health benefits. It’s great for bone health and provides a lot of nutrients.

2. Can I use Moringa leaves instead of Drumstick in this recipe?

Yes, you can! If you have Moringa leaves, you can use them instead. However, the Drumstick gives a distinct texture and flavor that’s hard to replace.

3. How long do I need to cook the dal?

For best results, cook the dal for about 15-18 minutes on low heat after adding the Moringa Drumsticks. If you’re using a pressure cooker, one or two whistles should do.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This Moringa Dal can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat it before serving.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a moderate level of spice. You can adjust the heat by adding or reducing the number of red chilies and chili powder according to your taste.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this dal?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like carrots, potatoes, or spinach, to the dal. It will make the dish even more nutritious.

7. How do I prevent the dal from becoming too thick?

If the dal gets too thick, simply add a little water and cook it for a few more minutes to reach your desired consistency.

8. Can I use oil instead of ghee for tempering?

Yes, you can use any oil of your choice, but I recommend using ghee for a richer taste.

9. How do I remove the Moringa pulp from the drumsticks?

Once the drumsticks are cooked, you can carefully remove the pulp (the inside of the drumsticks) and mix it back into the dal for added flavor and texture.

10. Is Moringa Dal good for health?

Yes, Moringa Dal is packed with nutrients and is especially good for bone health. It’s also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great addition to your diet.