Mung Dal Recipe (Moong Dal)

Mung Dal, also known as Moong Dal, is a simple yet flavorful dish made with mung beans, tempered with aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for those who follow a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic, making it suitable for offering to Krishna.

Mung Dal (Moong Dal) served in a katori on a thali.

Prepared with love and devotion, Mung Dal is a beloved dish among devotees and a delightful addition to any meal.

Serving Suggestions

Mung Dal can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • With Rice: Serve Mung Dal with plain basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • With Bread: Pair with roti, naan, or chapati for a delightful combination.
  • As a Main Dish: Serve as a main dish along with other complementary dishes for a well-rounded meal.
  • With Chutney: Pair with a sweet or spicy chutney to complement the rich flavors.

These serving suggestions make for a balanced and satisfying meal, fostering a sense of community and togetherness when shared with fellow devotees.

History

Mung Dal has a special place in the hearts of devotees. This recipe was developed to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that adheres to the principles of a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic. Mung Dal is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, and this version, with its emphasis on purity and devotion, has become a staple in many Hare Krishna kitchens.

Bhakti Thought

Mung Dal is more than just a dish; it is an expression of creativity, nourishment, and devotion. By preparing and offering this dish to Krishna, we engage in the sacred practice of bhakti, transforming the act of cooking into a spiritual journey. This dish serves as a reminder that even the simplest of ingredients, when combined with devotion and care, can create something extraordinary. Let this Mung Dal inspire you to cook with a heart full of love and to see each meal as an offering to Krishna, bringing us closer to Him with every bite.ot just a meal but a spiritual offering.

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Mung Dal Recipe (Moong Dal)

Mung Dal is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich Mung Dal combines wholesome ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any meal. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

  • Author: Chandra-Vadana Chaitanya das
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 – 6 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sauté and Simmer
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mung dal (moong dal)
  • 1 1/2 tsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
  • 2 tsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • A small amount of butter
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Mung Dal:
    • Rinse the mung dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain.
    • In a saucepan, add the soaked mung dal and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook covered until the dal is soft and mushy. Alternatively, cook the dal in a pressure cooker for 3-4 whistles.
  2. Prepare the Tempering:
    • In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
    • Add tomato paste, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and chili powder. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and well-blended.
  3. Combine and Cook:
    • Add the cooked mung dal to the pan and mix well. Add salt and stir to combine.
    • Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Finish with Butter and Lemon:
    • Add a small amount of butter to the dal and stir until melted.
    • If using, add lemon juice to the dal and mix well.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
    • Offer to Krishna and serve hot with rice or bread.

Notes

  • Consistency Tip: Adjust the amount of water to achieve the desired consistency for the dal.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
  • Serving Suggestion: Mung Dal pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed basmati rice or warm chapatis.
  • Flavor Enhancement: Adding a small amount of butter at the end enhances the richness and flavor of the dal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Hare Krishna Maha Mantra