Punjabi Moongi Dal / Pandito Ki Dal

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

Punjabi moongi dal, also known as pandito ki dal, is a light and easy-to-digest dish. It's a comforting meal, especially after eating outside food for a few days. This recipe offers a delicious version of this traditional dal.

Punjabi Moongi Dal / Pandito Ki Dal recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr 15min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Dal Preparation

  • moong dal
    moong dal
    1cup
  • water
    water
    2cups
  • water
    water
    4cups
  • salt
    salt
    1 1/2tsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    3/4tsp

Tadka

  • onion, chopped
    onion, chopped
    1cup
  • desi ghee
    desi ghee
    3tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tsp
  • ginger, grated
    ginger, grated
    1tbsp
  • green chilli, chopped
    green chilli, chopped
    2piece
  • tomato, pureed
    tomato, pureed
    2piece
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • degi mirch
    degi mirch
    1tsp
  • red chilli powder
    red chilli powder
    1/2tsp
  • water
    water
    1/2cup

Garnish

  • coriander leaves
    coriander leaves
    1tbsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1/2tsp

How to make Punjabi Moongi Dal / Pandito Ki Dal

Dal Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Wash and soak the moong dal in 2 cups of water for half an hour.

  2. Step 2

    In a cooker, add the soaked dal along with the soaking water and 4 cups of additional water.

  3. Step 3

    Add salt and turmeric powder. Pressure cook until steam is formed in the whistle. Remove from heat.

Tadka Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds.

  2. Step 2

    Add chopped onions and cook until they turn pink.

  3. Step 3

    Add grated ginger and chopped green chillies. Cook until light golden.

  4. Step 4

    Add tomato puree and all the spices. Cook for a minute.

  5. Step 5

    Add 1/2 cup of water and cook until the masala leaves the ghee.

Final Steps

  1. Step 1

    Open the cooker and cook the dal on low heat for a minimum of 15 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add the prepared tadka to the dal and mix well.

  3. Step 3

    Remove from heat and garnish with coriander leaves and garam masala.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

266.6kcal (13.33%)

Protein

13.6g (27.26%)

Carbs

34.6g (12.59%)

Sugars

3.5g (7%)

Healthy Fat

5.0g

Unhealthy Fat

6.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the dal is soaked properly to reduce cooking time.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

FAQS

  1. How do I cook Punjabi Moongi Dal in a pressure cooker?

    To cook Punjabi Moongi Dal in a pressure cooker, first wash and soak 1 cup of moong dal in 2 cups of water for about 30 minutes. Then, add the soaked dal along with the soaking water and 4 cups of additional water to the cooker. Add 1.5 tsp of salt and 0.75 tsp of turmeric powder. Pressure cook until steam forms in the whistle, then remove from heat. After that, cook the dal on low heat for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

  2. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Punjabi Moongi Dal?

    If you don't have moong dal, you can substitute it with split yellow lentils or red lentils, though the cooking time may vary. For ghee, you can use vegetable oil or butter. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of green chilies or omit them altogether. Additionally, if you don’t have fresh tomatoes, canned tomato puree can be used as a substitute.

  3. Is Punjabi Moongi Dal suitable for a vegan diet?

    Punjabi Moongi Dal can easily be made vegan by substituting desi ghee with a plant-based oil like coconut oil or olive oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this dish a great option for those following a vegan diet.

  4. How should I store leftover Punjabi Moongi Dal?

    Leftover Punjabi Moongi Dal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. You can also freeze the dal for up to 2 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

  5. What dishes pair well with Punjabi Moongi Dal?

    Punjabi Moongi Dal pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice. You can also serve it with roti or naan for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider serving it alongside a side of pickles or a fresh salad to enhance the overall dining experience.

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