Moong Dal Recipe: How to Make Moong Dal?

Moong Dal Recipe: How to Make Moong Dal?

When we think of easy to cook food in an Indian household, moong dal is the first dish that comes to our mind. Light, tasty and full of nutrition, it is one of the easiest lentils for digestion and simplest to cook.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to cook moong dal, its health benefits, recipe variations, and all the moong dal ingredients. Even if you are a new learner for cooking or a seasoned home chef, this is your complete guide to making a perfect bowl of moong dal.

What is Moong Dal?

Moong dal is a yellow lentils derived from whole green gram (moong beans). It is light on the stomach, rich in protein, and easily found in the kitchens of Indian households. It's cooked quickly, which makes it an ideal base for everyday meals, baby food, or even detox diets. It includes cumin seeds and there are various health benefits of khade masale too, which add another reason to have this dal.

Moong Dal Ingredients

Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

  1. ½ cup moong dal (yellow split)
  2. 1½ cups water (for pressure cooking)
  3. ½ tsp turmeric powder
  4. Salt to taste

For Tempering (Tadka)

  1. 1 tbsp ghee or oil
  2. ½ tsp cumin seeds
  3. 1 pinch asafoetida (hing)
  4. 1 dried red chili or green chili (optional)
  5. 1 tsp grated ginger or garlic (optional)
  6. 1 small tomato (chopped, optional)
  7. Chopped coriander or curry leaves (for garnish)

How to Cook Moong Dal: Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Step 1: Wash and Soak

  1. Rinse ½ cup of moong dal for 2-3 times under running water until the water runs clear.
  2. Although soaking the dal is optional, soaking for at least 15-20 minutes helps in quicker cooking and better digestion.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Dal

  1. Add the soaked dal to a pressure cooker with 1 1⁄2 cups water, a pinch of salt and turmeric.
  2. Cook for 2 or 3 whistles on medium heat or until the dal becomes soft and easily mashable.
  3. If using an open pot, simmer covered for 25–30 minutes, adding water as per your wish.

Step 3: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)

  1. Heat ghee or oil in a small pan.
  2. Add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  3. Add asafoetida, ginger-garlic (or their paste), and chili. Sauté for 30 seconds.
  4. Also, you can also add tomatoes and cook until soft (optional).
  5. Pour this tempering into the cooked dal.

Step 4: Simmer and Adjust

  1. Mix the dal and tempering well.
  2. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  3. Adjust salt and add water if the dal feels too thick.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Sprinkle chopped coriander or a dash of lemon juice.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, roti, or paratha.

Variations of Moong Dal Recipe

1. Moong Dal Tadka

Add onions, garlic, and tomatoes to the tempering for a more robust, dhaba-style flavor.

2. Moong Dal Khichdi

Combine moong dal with rice and veggies like carrot, peas, and bottle gourd. Great for kids and as a light detox meal.

3. South Indian Style

Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut for a Kerala-style dal twist.

4. Moong Dal Soup

Cook with vegetables and puree it into a hearty, protein-packed soup.

Why is Moong Dal a Superfood?

  1. It is rich in protein & fiber: Keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
  2. It is easy to digest, suitable for people of all age groups, including those with digestive issues.
  3. It is gluten-free and vegan-friendly
  4. It is low in calories: Great for weight watchers.

Tips on How to Cook Dal Moong Perfectly

  1. Always wash dal thoroughly to remove dust and starch.
  2. Do not overcook; it should be soft, not mushy.
  3. Ghee enhances the taste, but oil works well for a vegan version.
  4. Adjust the consistency by adding hot water, instead of cold water.

How to Prepare Moong Dal in Bulk?

  1. Cook and cool the dal completely.
  2. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for at least to 3 days.
  3. Reheat with a splash of water and re-temper for fresh flavor.

What to Serve With Moong Dal?

  1. Steamed rice with ghee
  2. Jeera rice or pulao
  3. Whole wheat roti or paratha
  4. Pickle, papad, or sautéed veggies

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make moong dal in a simple and delicious way, it’s time to bring this humble dish back to your table. Whether you're a student cooking on your own, a parent feeding your family, easy comfort food, moong dal never disappoints.

Mastering this basic recipe opens the door to so many variations, so don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs, veggies, and regional flavors. With just a few ingredients like turmeric powder and a little care, you can make something truly nourishing.


FAQs

Q1. How to make thicker or thinner moong dal?

A2. Add less water while cooking for a thicker dal. For thinner consistency, simply add hot water and simmer.

Q2. Can I cook moong dal without a pressure cooker?

A2. Yes, you can. Boil it in a pan. It will take around 25-30 minutes, depending on quantity and whether it’s soaked.

Q3. Is moong dal suitable for babies?

A3. Yes, but make it plain, without spices, and mash well.

Q4. Can I use moong dal for weight loss?

A4. Yes, it’s low in fat, high in protein, and keeps you full longer.

 

Disclaimer : The information provided in this blog is just for general awareness and informational purposes, gathered from various sources. ZOFF Foods do not assure or guarantee any healthy or nutritional results. We strictly recommend you consult a qualified health professional for personalised dietary advice.

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