Cooking is an art that I have always loved to explore and experiment with. Trying out new recipes and techniques brings me great joy and satisfaction. One such recipe that I recently ventured into is cooking moong dal in the microwave. This quick and easy recipe has become my go-to method for preparing this nutritious and delicious dish. So, join me as I share with you my step-by-step guide on how to cook moong dal in the microwave.
Gathering the Ingredients
What you’ll need:
Before we begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients at hand. Moong dal, also known as mung beans, can be easily found in most grocery stores or online. It’s a rich source of protein and fiber, making it a great addition to your diet.
Preparing the Moong Dal
Cleaning the lentils
Start by rinsing the moong dal under cold running water. This will help remove any impurities or dirt that may be present. Place the dal in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough water to cover it. Let it soak for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that the dal cooks evenly and becomes tender.
Cooking the Moong Dal
Once the dal has been soaked, drain the water and add 2 cups of fresh water to the bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power for 8-10 minutes.
After the first 5 minutes, pause the microwave and give the dal a stir. This helps in even cooking and prevents the dal from sticking to the sides of the bowl. Resume cooking for another 3-5 minutes or until the dal becomes soft and mushy.
Tempering the Dal
While the moong dal is cooking in the microwave, we can prepare the tempering to enhance its flavor.
Heating the oil
In a microwave-safe tempering bowl or small microwave-safe dish, add 1 teaspoon of oil. Place it in the microwave and heat it for about 30 seconds on high power.
Adding the spices
Once the oil is heated, remove the dish from the microwave and add the cumin seeds. Stir them well to make sure they are coated with oil. Place the dish back in the microwave and heat on high power for another 30 seconds. This helps in releasing the aroma and flavor of the cumin seeds.
Afterward, add the turmeric powder to the dish and mix well. The turmeric adds a beautiful yellow color to the dish and provides numerous health benefits.
Combining the elements
Now, carefully remove the bowl of cooked moong dal from the microwave. It will be extremely hot, so use oven mitts or kitchen towels to handle it. Carefully pour the tempering over the cooked moong dal, making sure to cover all the surface area.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can also add a teaspoon of ghee to the dal. Ghee, or clarified butter, enhances the taste and aroma of the dish. However, if you prefer a healthier option, you can skip this step.
Final Touches
Seasoning and garnishing
Add salt to taste and give the dal a good stir, ensuring that all the ingredients are well combined. If you feel the consistency is too thick, you can add a bit of water to achieve your desired thickness.
Garnish the moong dal with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Coriander not only adds a burst of freshness but also complements the earthiness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious moong dal can be served with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti. Its creamy texture and mild flavors make it a versatile dish that pairs well with various Indian breads and rice dishes.
So, there you have it! A quick and easy recipe for cooking moong dal in the microwave. With minimal effort and time, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the microwave work its magic in your kitchen!