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pitta
kapha
vata

Mung Dal Chilla with Carrot & Fresh Coriander

Soft savoury mung dal pancakes with grated carrot, ginger and coriander, cooling and naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Prep 15 min Cook 25 min Serves 4breakfast
Mung Dal Chilla with Carrot & Fresh Coriander

Ingredients

  • Split, husked yellow mung dal (moong dal)1 cup
  • Water, for soaking3 cups
  • Water, for blending1/4-1/2 cup, as needed
  • Fresh ginger, finely grated1 teaspoon
  • Ground cumin1/2 teaspoon
  • Ground turmeric1/4 teaspoon
  • Carrot, finely grated1/2-3/4 cup (1 small carrot)
  • Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), finely chopped1/4 cup
  • Salt3/4 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Sunflower oil or ghee, for cooking2-3 tablespoons in total
  • To serve (optional): coconut chutney, or a few cucumber slicesas desired

Method

  1. 1

    Rinse the mung dal 3-4 times until the water runs mostly clear, then soak in 3 cups of water for 3-4 hours or overnight.

  2. 2

    Drain and rinse the dal, then blend with 1/4 cup water to a smooth, thick, lump-free batter.

  3. 3

    Stir in ginger, cumin, turmeric and salt, then fold in the grated carrot and chopped coriander.

  4. 4

    Let the batter rest 10-15 minutes, adjusting consistency with a little water if needed.

  5. 5

    Heat a seasoned pan, pour a ladleful of batter and spread it into a circle.

  6. 6

    Cook until the underside is golden and edges lift, drizzling a little oil or ghee around the edges.

  7. 7

    Flip and cook the second side until golden, then repeat with remaining batter.

  8. 8

    Serve warm with coconut chutney or cucumber slices if desired.

Ayurvedic rationale

Traditionally, mung beans are considered light and cooling and are used to calm Pitta and Kapha, with simple adjustments (a little ghee) suiting Vata as well.

Nutrition notes

Nutritionally, this breakfast offers plant protein, fibre and folate from mung beans, plus beta-carotene from carrot.

Good to know

Free from gluten, dairy, nuts, soy and eggs as written, but anyone with a legume allergy should avoid it.

Traditional wisdom is a lens, not medical advice. Please consult a professional if you have allergies or a medical condition.