Moong Dal Kadhi: A Creamy, Tangy Indian Comfort Food You’ll Love

Moon Dal Kadhi

Moong Dal Kadhi is a traditional Indian dish that combines the goodness of yellow moong dal (lentils) with a tangy, flavorful yogurt-based gravy. This simple yet delicious dish is often served as a side with steamed rice or roti, making it a comforting meal, especially on chilly days or during festive occasions. Packed with protein, fiber, and probiotics from the yogurt, Moong Dal Kadhi is a nourishing option that’s both light and filling.

Ingredients for Moong Dal Kadhi

For the Moong Dal:

• 1 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the Kadhi (Gravy):

• 1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
• 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water (adjust consistency as required)

For the Tempering (Tadka):

• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Moong Dal

1. Wash the moong dal thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities or dust.
2. In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the moong dal, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the dal until it becomes soft and slightly mushy. If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 3-4 whistles, while on the stove, it will take about 15-20 minutes on medium heat.
3. Once the dal is cooked, set it aside. It should have a somewhat thick consistency but should still have a little moisture for the kadhi to mix well.

Step 2: Prepare the Kadhi

1. In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add the gram flour (besan), red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the yogurt. Mix everything together until it forms a smooth, lump-free mixture.
2. Gradually add 2 cups of water to the yogurt mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Adjust the water according to your desired consistency.
3. Heat a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Pour the yogurt-besan mixture into the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to prevent the yogurt from curdling.
4. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and you can smell the cooked besan. If the kadhi thickens too much, you can add a little more water to adjust the consistency.

Step 3: Combine Moong Dal with Kadhi

1. Once the kadhi has thickened and the flavors have developed, add the cooked moong dal to the kadhi.
2. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the dal and kadhi to blend together, absorbing each other’s flavors. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)

1. In a separate small pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds.
3. Add the dried red chilies, asafoetida, grated ginger, and chopped garlic. Sauté for a minute or until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant.
4. Pour this tempering over the simmering Moong Dal Kadhi.

Step 5: Final Touch

1. Stir the kadhi gently to incorporate the tempering.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Moong Dal Kadhi can be enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or roti. The slightly tangy flavor of the kadhi pairs beautifully with the softness of the rice or the warm, soft roti. For added flavor, you can serve it with a side of pickle and papad.

Tips

• Consistency: Moong Dal Kadhi can be made thick or slightly runny, depending on your preference. If you like it thicker, use less water when cooking the kadhi or allow it to simmer longer.
• Vegetarian Option: This dish is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. Make sure to check the yogurt and other ingredients for any hidden gluten if you are on a strict gluten-free diet.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: You can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and ginger in the tempering to adjust the spiciness of the dish to your liking.

Moong Dal Kadhi is not just tasty, but also a great way to incorporate protein, probiotics, and essential vitamins into your diet. It’s an easy, heartwarming recipe that is bound to become a family favorite!