India is a land of diverse flavors and culinary delights, and one ingredient that shines through in its snack culture is Moong Dal. Whether you prefer the whole green gram with the skin on or the split yellow version, Moong Dal has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. Not only is it a versatile lentil used in soups and curries, but it also forms the base of numerous mouth-watering snacks that will take your taste buds on a thrilling journey. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the colorful markets of Rajasthan and the serene households of Gujarat, here are ten sensational Moong Dal snacks from all over India that are guaranteed to make your evenings delicious.
- Ram Ladoo – Delhi’s Winter Favorite Ram Ladoo, a popular street food from Delhi, is a deep-fried snack made with a combination of Moong Dal and Chana Dal. Contrary to its name, Ram Ladoo is not a sweet dish but a savory delight. These round fritters are seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, dry mango, ginger, and garlic, giving them an irresistible flavor. Served with tangy chutney and garnished with freshly grated radishes, Ram Ladoo is a must-try snack, particularly during the winter months.
- Moong Dal Kachori – A Rajasthani Delicacy Rajasthan, known for its crispy and flavorful Kachoris, offers a delightful variation with Moong Dal. Moong Dal Kachori from Jodhpur is packed with spices like asafoetida and chili, giving it a unique Rajasthani twist. These deep-fried, flaky pastries filled with a savory Moong Dal mixture are best enjoyed with a side of chutneys. While you can find them in the streets of Rajasthan, you can also try making them at home to savor the authentic flavors.
- Moong Dal Pandoli – A Gujarati Steamed Delicacy Hailing from Gujarat, Moong Dal Pandoli is a steamed snack that bears a resemblance to idlis. Traditionally handcrafted, these dumplings are made by grinding soaked Moong Dal into a smooth batter, which is then steamed to perfection. Moong Dal Pandolis are best enjoyed with chutney and a hot cup of tea. While the traditional method requires some skill, using an idli maker can make the process simpler for home cooks.
- Adai Idli – A South Indian Protein-packed Delight Adai Idli, originating from Tamil Nadu, is a delicious and nutritious mixed lentil dish that includes Moong Dal as a key ingredient. These idlis are protein-rich and have a soft and fluffy texture. What sets Adai Idli apart is the absence of a prolonged fermentation process, as they can be prepared quickly by adding fruit salts or baking soda. With their wholesome taste and health benefits, Moong Dal Adai Idlis are a perfect choice for breakfast or an evening snack.
- Moonglet – A Vegetarian Omelette Alternative For those seeking a vegetarian and vegan twist on the classic omelette, Moonglet is the answer. Popular in North Indian households and street food stalls in Delhi, Moonglet is a filling and healthy snack made with Moong Dal. These omelette-like creations are packed with chopped vegetables, plenty of Moong Dal, and a blend of spices. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed guilt-free.
- Moong Puli – A Nutritious Bengali Snack Bengal and Assam are known for their delectable range of Pithas, and Moong Puli is a lentil-based version of this traditional snack. The outer shell of this fried delicacy is made from Moong Dal, while the stuffing typically consists of coconut and jaggery. The inclusion of Moong Dal adds a balanced nutritional profile to this sweet and savory snack.
- Moong Dal Muthiya – A Healthy Gujarati Snack Muthiya is a popular snack from Gujarat traditionally made with gram flour, vegetables, and spices. Moong Dal Muthiya offers a healthier twist by incorporating protein-rich Moong Dal into the mixture. The soaked Moong Dal is ground into a paste, mixed with spices, veggies, sesame seeds, and steamed before being fried with a tadka. Paired with chutney and chai, Moong Dal Muthiya is a delightful and nutritious snack option.
- Moong Dal Mangodi – A Rajasthani Holi Specialty In Rajasthan, Moong Dal Mangodi, also known as Moong Dal Vada, holds a special place and is often prepared as a festive dish during Holi. These bite-sized fritters are made by combining Moong Dal batter with spices, herbs like coriander and fenugreek, and then deep-frying them to perfection. With their crunchy texture and aromatic flavors, Moong Dal Mangodi is a savory delight that can be enjoyed on any occasion.
- Handvo – A Gujarati Savory Cake Handvo, another Gujarati specialty, is a savory cake that prominently features Moong Dal. This wholesome dish is prepared either in a pressure cooker or a pan and incorporates generous amounts of Moong Dal, bottle gourd, herbs, and spices. Handvo can be pan-fried or steamed, making it a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks. Its unique taste and texture make it a beloved snack across Gujarat.
- Moong Dal Murukku – A South Indian Crunchy Delight Moong Dal Murukku, also known as Paithamparuppu Murukku, is a popular South Indian snack that goes by the name Chakli in North India. Made with a batter of Moong Dal and rice flour, these spiral-shaped treats are deep-fried to a golden crisp. The best part about Moong Dal Murukku is its long shelf life, making it a perfect snack to store at home and enjoy over an extended period.
Final Thoughts:
The world of Moong Dal snacks in India is vast and diverse, offering a plethora of flavors and textures. From the tangy and spicy Ram Ladoo of Delhi to the crispy Moong Dal Kachori of Rajasthan, and the steamed Moong Dal Pandoli of Gujarat to the protein-rich Adai Idli of Tamil Nadu, each snack brings its own unique charm. Whether you’re a fan of deep-fried indulgence or prefer healthier steamed options, there’s a Moong Dal snack to suit every palate. So, embark on this culinary adventure, explore the flavors from all over India, and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized by these mind-blowing Moong Dal snacks. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more!
