A bowl full of protein It is unbelievable how many varieties of lentils exist and in how many variations the Indian sub continent can prepare these lentils. I guess people had to be innovative as dal or lentils is a part of the staple diet for most people of the sub continent. This humble…
-
Continue ReadingWhat is Urad Dal? Urad is known by several names – black gram, urad bean, vigna mungo, mungo bean or black matpe bean. Grown widely in the Indian Sub Continent it is used not only for curries but for so many other dishes. Urad dal, whole or split is a vital ingredient in preparing fermented batter…
-
Continue ReadingIdli Sambar Idli Sambar is a fluffy soft, melt in the mouth fermented and steamed breakfast, served with a delicious, piping hot lentil stew and topped with fresh coconut chutney. Not only is idli sambar a healthy breakfast, but also the fermentation process increases the bioavailability of proteins, and enriches the idli with vitamin B. Low…
-
Continue Readingcreamy and buttery Anyone who has been to an Indian restaurant or dhaba, has heard of or tasted dal makhani. Its a famous Punjabi dal, usually served along with naan, parathas, vegetables and rice. The original dal makhani is cooked over a low heat charcoal furnace or in the naan furnace overnight. Very slow…
-
Continue Readingcreamy and yummy Cowpeas or chora/choli as its called in gujarati are grown in Asia, Africa and US. The variety of cowpeas are many. Right from the black eyed cowpea to the brown kidney shaped variety. For this recipe I have used the brown or deep red variety which is commonly grown in Kenya. I…
-
Continue ReadingPacked with protein Like other legumes, green lentils or moong are low in fat and high in protein and fiber, and have the added advantage of cooking quickly. Moong have a mild, often earthy flavor, and they’re best if cooked with assertive flavorings. Lentils cook more slowly if they’re combined with salt or acidic ingredients, so…
-
Continue ReadingSpinach Masoor Dal/ Spinach Puy Lentil Curry Spinach Masoor Dal or Spinch Puy Lentil Curry is a wholesome, healthy, easy to prepare, creamy, with flavors of spinach and coconut. Best enjoyed with some plain rice or any Indian Flatbread. What is Masoor Dal or Puy Lentil? Known as whole or sabut masoor, flat lentils or…
