Print

Savor This Masoor Dal Chilla Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 223 reviews

Masoor Dal Chilla is a flavorful and nutritious Indian savory pancake made from red lentils, blended into a smooth batter and mixed with fresh vegetables and spices. This protein-packed, gluten-free dish is perfect for breakfast or a light meal, offering a crispy texture and vibrant taste when cooked on a skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Red Lentils (Masoor Dal) (Soak for 3–4 hours)
  • 1 Onion (Finely chopped)
  • 1 Tomato (Ripe and chopped)
  • 1 Green Chili (optional; adds spice)
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (Whole)
  • 2 tablespoons Coriander Leaves (Fresh, for garnish)
  • to taste Salt
  • Oil for cooking (Neutral oil like vegetable or coconut)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Soak Lentils: Rinse the red lentils under cold water thoroughly, then soak them in water for 3-4 hours to soften them for blending.
  2. Prepare Batter: Drain the soaked lentils well and transfer them to a blender. Add just enough water to blend into a smooth, pourable batter without lumps.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the lentil batter with finely chopped onion, ripe tomato, green chili (if using), turmeric, cumin seeds, coriander leaves, and salt. Stir well to combine evenly.
  4. Heat Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a small amount of neutral oil like vegetable or coconut oil.
  5. Cook Chilla: Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the skillet, spreading it into a circle approximately 6 inches in diameter. Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges start to lift.
  6. Flip and Cook Other Side: Gently flip the chilla and cook the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Serve the Masoor Dal Chillas hot, accompanied by mint chutney or yogurt for dipping.

Notes

  • Soaking the lentils aids in better blending and improves digestibility.
  • Adjust water quantity gradually while blending to get the right batter consistency.
  • Green chili is optional and can be omitted to reduce the spiciness.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and reduce oil usage.
  • Chillas can be kept warm in a low oven until serving.

Keywords: Masoor Dal Chilla, red lentil pancake, Indian breakfast, gluten-free savory pancake, protein-packed chilla

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/savor-this-masoor-dal-chilla-recipe/