Moong Dal Idli recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. Looking for a healthy twist on your favorite South Indian breakfast? Meet Moong Dal Idli—light, fluffy, and packed with protein! Whether you’re cutting back on carbs or just in the mood to try something new, this quick and tasty recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
About Moong Dal Idli
Moong Dal Idli is a healthy and delicious variation of the traditional South Indian breakfast dish, idli. Instead of using rice and urad dal, this recipe calls for moong dal (split mung beans) as the main ingredient. Moong dal is soaked, ground into a batter, and combined with other ingredients like grated coconut, green chilies, and yogurt to create a nutritious and protein-rich idli batter. The batter is then steamed in idli moulds to make soft, fluffy, and nutritious Idlis. This recipe offers a healthier twist to the classic idli, making it ideal for those looking to cut back on carbs or incorporate more protein into their diet.
Why You’ll Love Moong Dal Idli
Light & Versatile: They’re great for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner!
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, these idlis are a healthier alternative to the traditional version.
Easy to Make: The recipe is simple and doesn’t require fermentation.
Benefits of Moong Dal Idli
I particularly like this recipe for the many benefits it offers. Moong Dal Idlis are rich in dietary fibre, making them a great choice for digestive health. They are also complex carbohydrates, which makes them ideal for those following a low-carb diet while still providing sustained energy. Additionally, these idlis are high in protein, which can effectively boost your protein intake, particularly for those following a plant-based diet.
Customization Options
I made a simple version of the idli, but if you prefer, you can add in some veggies like green peas or grated carrots.
Pro Tips
During the tempering process, you can also add in some curry leaves and broken dried red chillies for an extra depth of flavour.
Key Ingredient: Yogurt
When preparing the Moong Dal Idli, it’s essential to include yogurt in the batter for a perfect texture and a slight tanginess. If sour yogurt isn’t available, Greek yogurt is an excellent and healthier alternative; it is thick, rich in protein, and imparts a creamy consistency to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hot Idlis with any chutneys like coconut chutney, Chana Dal Chutney, Coriander Chutney or Urad dal Coconut Chutney and Enjoy!
Another Delicious Option: Rava Idli
If you’re looking for another delightful and easy-to-make idli variation, consider trying Rava Idli. Similar to Moong Dal Idli, Rava Idli is a popular South Indian dish that offers a different texture and taste. Instead of moong dal, Rava Idli is made using semolina (rava) as the main ingredient. The semolina is combined with yogurt, vegetables, and flavorful spices to create a savory and fluffy idli batter. Just like Moong Dal Idli, Rava Idli is also steamed to perfection in idli moulds. This recipe is a great option for those craving a quick and delectable idli experience.
These Idlis are a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic idli recipe. They are easy to make and perfect for a healthy breakfast or dinner.
Happy Cooking!
Moong Dal Idli
Description
Moong Dal Idlis are a healthy and delicious South Indian steamed snack made from ground moong dal (split yellow lentils) and grated coconut. These fluffy, savory cakes are not only a great source of protein but also easy to prepare. The idlis are typically served with coconut chutney or sambar, making for a nutritious breakfast or snack option that's both light and satisfying. Their unique texture and mild flavor make them a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone
Ingredients for the Moong Dal Idli Recipe
For Tempering:
Instructions on how to make the Moong Dal Idli
Instructions on how to make the Moong Dal Idli
Instructions on how to make the Moong Dal Idli with step-by-step photos
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Prepare the Dal
Rinse and soak - Rinse the moong dal three times and then soak it in water for 2 hours.
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Grind the coconut mixture - In a small mixer jar, add the grated coconut, green chilies, salt, and hing. Grind it coarsely first, then add a little water and grind to a smooth paste. Set this aside.
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Prepare the Batter
Grind the dal - In a clean mixer jar, add the soaked moong dal and 1/4 cup of water. Grind coarsely until it has a slightly grainy texture, similar to semolina.
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Combine ingredients - In a bowl, mix the ground moong dal with the green chili-coconut paste and yogurt until well combined.
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Tempering
Heat oil - In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.
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Steam the Idlis
Mix into batter - Add the tempered oil and mustard seeds to the batter along with the baking soda and mix well. Rest this batter for 15 minutes.
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Prepare the idli moulds - Grease the idli moulds with some oil.
Add batter - Pour a ladleful of batter into each mould.
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Boil water - Add some water to the idli pot and bring it to a boil.
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Steam idlis - Place the idli moulds in the pot, cover, and cook on medium flame for 12 minutes.
Check for doneness - Insert a skewer or toothpick into an idli. If it comes out clean, they are done.
