How to cook Moong Dal with Tindora recipe

 

Pesara Pappu / Moong Dal with Ivy Gourd (Tindora/Kovakkai)

🍲 Healthy South Indian Dal Recipe 

Simple, and comforting South Indian dish, this Pesarattu Dal with Ivy Gourd (Tindora) is a must-try!

🛒 Ingredients:

1 cup green moong dal (whole moong / pesarattu dal)
1 cup ivy gourd (tindora / kovakkai), thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 green chilies, slit or finely chopped
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1 dried red chili
1 sprig curry leaves
2 tbsp oil (preferably coconut or sesame oil)
Salt to taste
2 to 2½ cups water
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Rinse and Soak the Dal: Wash moong dal well and soak for 30 minutes to help it cook faster.
2. Cook the Dal: Drain and cook with turmeric, salt, and water until soft but not mushy.
   • In a pressure cooker: 1–2 whistles on medium heat.
   • In an open pot: Simmer on low heat until tender. Add more water if needed.
3. Prepare the Tempering: Heat oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin, dried red chili, and curry leaves. Let them sizzle and become aromatic.
4. Sauté Aromatics: Add onions and green chilies. Cook until translucent and golden.
5. Add Ivy Gourd: Toss in sliced tindora. Sauté 4–6 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
6. Combine & Simmer: Add cooked dal to the pan. Mix gently. Simmer 3–5 minutes for flavors to blend.
7. Garnish & Serve: Turn off heat, add fresh coriander, and serve with rice, jeera rice, or chapati.

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✨ Tips and Variations:

For richness, drizzle a spoon of ghee before serving.
Adjust water to make the dal thicker or thinner as preferred.
Add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) in the tempering for a deeper flavor.
Crushed garlic can be added during tempering for extra aroma.

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💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Pesarattu Dal with Ivy Gourd is not just healthy and delicious, but also easy to prepare with simple ingredients. Moong dal is high in protein and easy to digest, while ivy gourd brings fiber and antioxidants. It’s a perfect comfort food!

🔖 Tags: #MoongDalRecipes #IvyGourdRecipes #SouthIndianCooking #ComfortFood

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