Moong dal, or split yellow lentils, is a versatile ingredient that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a gourmet twist, here are 7 healthy yet delicious dishes you can make with moong dal. But, before that, learn about the nutritients present in this dal.

The nutrients
Moong dal is a nutrient-rich legume. When cooked, a 100 g moong dal provides approximately 105 calories, 7.1 g protein, 18.1 g carbohydrates, and 0.4 g fat. It is rich in fiber (7.6 g), aiding digestion, and offers essential vitamins like folate and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron, making it a nutrient-dense and healthy food choice.

Moong Dal Khichdi
A comforting one-pot meal, moong dal khichdi combines rice, moong dal, and mild spices. This dish is light on the stomach and perfect for detox days or when recovering from illness. Add vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans for extra nutrients and serve it with a dollop of ghee for enhanced flavor.

Moong Dal Cheela
Cheela, or savory pancakes, made with moong dal is a healthy breakfast or snack option. Soak and grind the dal into a batter, mix in spices, and cook on a griddle. You can add grated vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini for added crunch and nutrition.

Moong Dal Soup
Moong dal soup is a light, protein-packed dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Cook the dal with garlic, ginger, and vegetable stock, then blend it into a creamy consistency. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing flavor. It’s an excellent option for weight management or a quick dinner.

Moong Dal Salad
For a healthy, no-cook option, moong dal salad is a great choice. Soak and steam the dal until slightly tender, then mix it with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a sprinkle of chaat masala. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil for a tangy, refreshing, and protein-rich dish.

Moong Dal Halwa
Who says healthy can’t be indulgent? Moong dal halwa is a delicious dessert made with roasted dal, ghee, jaggery, and milk. While it’s rich, using jaggery instead of sugar and moderate amounts of ghee makes it a healthier sweet treat perfect for festive occasions.

Moong Dal Dhokla
A light and fluffy steamed snack, moong dal dhokla is made by blending soaked dal into a batter, fermenting it, and steaming it with spices. It’s a healthy and protein-rich option often served with green chutney.

Moong Dal Pakoras
These crispy fritters are made by mixing soaked moong dal with spices and herbs, then deep-frying small portions until golden brown. They’re perfect as an evening snack, especially during rainy days.