Description
Mix dal is a blend of different types of lentils that are combined together to make a flavorful and nutritious dish. The specific types of lentils used in mix dal can vary depending on the region or cuisine, but some common varieties include chana dal (split chickpeas), moong dal (split green gram), toor dal (split pigeon peas), urad dal (black gram), and masoor dal (red lentils).
The dish is a popular source of protein in many vegetarian and vegan diets, as it provides a complete protein source when combined with rice or chapati. It is also a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
Mix dal is a combination of different types of lentils, and the specific types of lentils used can vary depending on the region or cuisine. Some common names of mix dal in different regions are:
- Panchmel dal or panchratna dal: This is a mix of five different types of lentils, commonly used in North Indian cuisine.
- Sambar dal: This is a mix of lentils used in South Indian cuisine to make sambar, a popular lentil-based vegetable stew.
- Khichdi dal: This is a mix of lentils used in making khichdi, a popular one-pot meal in India.
- Chana dal mix: This is a mix of chana dal (split chickpeas) with other lentils such as moong dal (split green gram) or urad dal (black gram), commonly used in Indian and Pakistani cuisine.
- Lentil soup mix: This is a mix of different lentils such as green lentils, red lentils, and yellow lentils used to make lentil soup, which is popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
These are some common names for mix dal, but there can be many other variations of the mix depending on the region or culinary tradition.
Benefits of Mix Dal
Mix dal, which is a combination of different types of lentils, can offer several benefits:
- Complete protein: Mix dal contains a good amount of protein, and when combined with rice or chapati, it can provide a complete protein source.
- Fiber: Mix dal is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps in improving digestion and maintaining healthy bowel movements.
- Lowers cholesterol: Mix dal can help lower cholesterol levels in the body due to its high fiber content.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Mix dal contains several essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium, which are important for overall health.
- Low glycemic index: Mix dal has a low glycemic index, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Versatile: Mix dal can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, curries, and salads, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet.
Overall, incorporating mix dal into your diet can provide a range of health benefits and is a great way to add variety and flavor to your meals.
Mix Dal Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of mixed lentils (chana dal, moong dal, toor dal, urad dal, and/or masoor dal)
- 4 cups of water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the lentils in water and soak them for 30 minutes.
- In a pressure cooker, add the soaked lentils and 4 cups of water and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the lentils are soft and mushy.
- In a pan, heat the oil and ghee together.
- Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
- Add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt, and mix well.
- Add the cooked lentils along with any remaining water and mix well.
- Let the dal simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors are well combined.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or chapati.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious mix dal!
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