Delightful Green Moong Dal: Stovetop & Instant Pot Recipe

Name: Green Moong Dal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup green moong dal (soaked for 30 minutes); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 ripe tomatoes (chopped); 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1-2 green chilies (sliced); 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves (for garnish); 4 cups water or vegetable broth; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

June 3, 2025

Updated:

June 3, 2025

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The aroma of Green Moong Dal wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing memories of family gatherings and laughter. This dish, with its vibrant green hue and creamy texture, promises to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

As you prepare to dive into this culinary adventure, get ready for an explosion of flavors that dance harmoniously on your palate. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive feast, Green Moong Dal is the perfect companion to elevate any meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes this dish a go-to for busy weeknights
Its rich flavor profile offers a delightful balance of spices and earthy goodness
The stunning green color adds visual appeal to any dining table
Versatile enough to be served with rice, roti, or enjoyed solo!

My friends always rave about my Green Moong Dal when I whip it up during family gatherings—it’s like they’ve never tasted anything so comforting!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green Moong Dal: Opt for high-quality dal; soak it beforehand for a creamier texture.
Onions: Use medium-sized onions; they add sweetness and depth to the dal.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring acidity and brightness; choose ripe ones for maximum flavor.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: A must-have for that aromatic kick; store-bought is fine but homemade is better!
Cumin Seeds: These little seeds add warmth; toast them lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.
Turmeric Powder: This golden spice not only colors the dish but also provides health benefits.
Coriander Powder: Essential for earthiness; make sure it’s fresh for the best taste.
Green Chilies: Adjust according to your spice preference for that extra zing!
Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro as a garnish adds color and freshness—don’t skip it!
Water or Vegetable Broth: Use broth for added flavor; water works if you’re in a pinch!
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; remember, you can always add more but can’t take it out!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep the Dal: Rinse the green moong dal under cold water until it runs clear. Soaking helps reduce cooking time and enhances creaminess.

Sauté the Base: In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds until they sizzle and release their aroma, about 30 seconds.

Add Onions and Spices : Toss in chopped onions; sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and chopped green chilies—let those flavors mingle!

Add Tomatoes and Cook Down : Mix in chopped tomatoes; cook until they soften and break down, around 5-7 minutes. The mixture should smell heavenly by now!

Combine Dal with Water : Add rinsed moong dal along with enough water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat—let it simmer until soft, about 20-25 minutes.

Finish with Garnish : Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro leaves—enjoy every spoonful!

Now you have mastered the art of making Green Moong Dal using both stovetop and Instant Pot methods! It’s time to enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth and happiness to every meal.

You Must Know

Green Moong Dal is a nutritious powerhouse, perfect for a cozy meal
Its earthy flavor and creamy texture make it a family favorite
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add veggies or spices based on your cravings
This dish is a delightful comfort food!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the green moong dal for at least 30 minutes to enhance its texture. Cook it until tender, then sauté with spices for maximum flavor. This sequence ensures the dal cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious seasonings.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Green Moong Dal by adding chopped spinach or tomatoes. Experiment with various spices like cumin or turmeric to elevate its flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten everything up beautifully!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Green Moong Dal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore its creamy consistency without drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect texture, soak the dal overnight if you have time; it makes cooking easier
Stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking
Finally, adjust seasoning according to taste preferences for personalized flavors

I still remember the first time I made Green Moong Dal for my friends—they loved it so much that they asked for seconds, thirds, and even fourths! Seeing their delight made all the chopping worthwhile.

FAQs

FAQ

What is Green Moong Dal?

Green Moong Dal is a type of lentil that’s high in protein and fiber.

Can I cook Green Moong Dal in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use high pressure for about 15 minutes; it cooks quickly and easily.

What spices go well with Green Moong Dal?

Cumin, turmeric, and coriander enhance its flavor; feel free to experiment!

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