Moong Dal Idli
Steamed savory cakes from soaked split moong dal batter (no rice or fermentation).
For 6 servings
Soak and drain the moong dal
- Rinse the split moong dal thoroughly under cold running water.
- Soak the dal in a bowl of water for at least 3 hours.
- Drain the water completely before proceeding to the next step.
Blend the ingredients into a smooth batter
Combine the soaked dal with ginger, green chili, low-fat yogurt, and salt in a blender. Grind until a smooth consistency is reached. Just before steaming, stir in the eno fruit salt to aerate the batter, ensuring it becomes light and fluffy.
TIPAvoid adding extra water while grinding to maintain a thick batter consistency suitable for steaming.Steam the idlis until firm
- Grease the idli moulds lightly with a drop of oil.
- Pour the batter into the moulds, filling them three-quarters full.
- Steam for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
What to keep in mind.
3 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the dal is drained very well; excess water will make the batter too thin to rise.
- 2Add the eno fruit salt only when the steamer is hot and ready to prevent the bubbles from escaping.
- 3For a nutritional boost, fold in finely grated carrots or chopped coriander leaves into the batter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute low-fat yogurt with a tablespoon of lemon juice to provide the necessary acidity for the eno to react.
spicierSpicier
Add finely chopped green chilies or a pinch of black pepper powder directly into the batter before steaming.
diabetic friendlyDiabetic friendly
This recipe is naturally suitable for diabetics due to the high fiber content of moong dal which prevents glucose spikes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High Plant-Based Protein
Moong dal provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.
Supports Healthy Digestion
The steaming process and split lentils make this dish very easy to digest.
Heart Healthy Choice
Low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free to support cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a high-protein, low-fat alternative to traditional rice idlis, making it excellent for weight management and muscle repair.