Moonglets with Amchur Chaat Masala Chutney: A Savory Delight from India

In the vast repertoire of Indian cuisine, where spices meet health and flavor dances with variety, Moonglets stand out as a delightful, nutritious option. Originating as a street food favorite, this savory pancake made from moong dal (split yellow gram) is not only packed with protein but also brims with the freshness of vegetables and the punch of traditional Indian spices. Accompanied by a tangy Amchur Chaat Masala Chutney, this dish brings a carousel of flavors to your palate.

Ingredients for Moonglets:

  • 1 cup Moong dal
  • 1 tbsp chopped Ginger
  • ½ tsp Turmeric
  • ½ cup Water (for blending, adjust as needed for consistency)
  • 3 tbsp chopped Onion
  • 2 Green Chilies, chopped
  • 1 tsp Cumin seeds
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped Carrot
  • ⅓ cup chopped Tomato
  • Handful of chopped Coriander leaves
  • ⅓ cup chopped Capsicum
  • Salt to taste
  • A sprig of Curry leaves (optional)
  • 1 tsp Eno (fruit salt)
  • Oil for cooking

Ingredients for Amchur Chaat Masala Chutney:

  • 2 cups Water
  • ½ cup Amchur powder (dry mango powder)
  • ¾ cup Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Chaat masala
  • ½ tsp Pepper powder
  • 1½ tbsp Roasted cumin powder
  • 1 tsp Black salt
  • 1½ tsp Red Chilli powder
  • Salt to taste

Methods:

  1. Prepare the Batter:
    • Soak moong dal for 3-4 hours or overnight, then drain and rinse well.
    • Blend the moong dal with ginger, turmeric, and a little water until smooth like pancake batter. Add more water if necessary.
  2. Mix Vegetables:
    • Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl. Stir in onions, tomatoes, green chilies, cumin seeds, carrots, capsicum, salt, and coriander leaves. Add curry leaves if using.
    • Gently fold in the Eno just before cooking to ensure the batter is light and fluffy.
  3. Cook the Moonglets:
    • Heat a non-stick pan with a few drops of oil spread evenly.
    • Pour a ladleful of the batter, spreading it gently to form a pancake. Adjust thickness as desired.
    • Drizzle oil around the edges, cover with a lid, and cook on medium-low until golden and crispy on the bottom.
    • Flip and cook the other side, adding oil as needed. Cover until crispy.
  4. Prepare the Chutney:
    • Boil water, amchur powder, sugar, chaat masala, pepper, roasted cumin, black salt, red chilli powder, and salt. Stir until thickened to your preference.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve each moonglet hot with a side of the freshly made amchur chaat masala chutney.

Preparation Time:

  • Cooking: 30 minutes
  • Preparation: 4 hours (including dal soaking time)
  • Total: About 4 hours and 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moonglets are a perfect blend of taste and health. The addition of Amchur Chaat Masala Chutney, with its sharp, sweet, and tangy notes, elevates the moonglets from simple to extraordinary. This recipe is an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore the richness of Indian flavors while keeping health in check. Its versatility makes it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Breakfast Treat: Serve hot moonglets with a side of chutney and a steaming cup of masala tea for a fulfilling breakfast.
  • Light Dinner: Accompany with a side salad of cucumbers and yogurt to make a complete, light dinner.
  • Kids’ Lunchbox: Cool the moonglets and pack them with a small container of chutney for a school lunch that’s both nutritious and enjoyable.

Cooking Tips:

  • Consistency is Key: Ensure the batter is smooth and not too thick to spread easily on the pan, akin to pancake batter.
  • Freshness Matters: Adding Eno fruit salt just before you begin cooking will help keep the moonglets fluffy and soft.
  • Low and Slow: Cook the moonglets on a medium-low heat to avoid burning them while ensuring they cook through and crisp up beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits:

Moonglets are rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, thanks to the moong dal base. The added vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals which aid in digestion and boost overall health. This dish is also low in cholesterol and high in beneficial nutrients, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Dietary Information:

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by substituting any non-vegan ingredients used in cooking, like using plant-based oils. It’s also suitable for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Conclusion:

The Moonglets with Amchur Chaat Masala Chutney recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through the flavors of India with every bite. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a testament to the fact that healthy food can be incredibly flavorful and comforting. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned aficionado, these moonglets are sure to delight your taste buds and become a repeat favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect blend of health, taste, and tradition.