Description
These **Masoor Dal Chillas** are savory, high-protein Indian pancakes made with red lentils. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, they’re a perfect healthy meal or snack, easy to make, and customizable with your favorite veggies and spices.
Ingredients
1 cup masoor dal (red lentils), soaked for 2-3 hours
½ cup water (adjust as needed for blending)
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
½ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp red chili powder (optional)
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ cup chopped onions
¼ cup chopped tomatoes
¼ cup chopped cilantro (fresh coriander)
½ tsp garam masala (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the masoor dal in water for 2-3 hours. Drain and rinse. Add the soaked lentils, grated ginger, green chilies, turmeric, salt, and water to a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a bowl and stir in cumin seeds, chili powder, chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and garam masala (if using).
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or ghee. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it into a thin pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges begin to lift. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Serve hot with green chutney, tomato chutney, or a side of yogurt.
Notes
If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the green chilies.
You can substitute masoor dal with moong dal or toor dal for a different taste.
Feel free to experiment with grated carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chilla
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
