Moong Dal Chilla – Protein-Packed Indian Breakfast (No Maida, No Eggs!)

Moong Dal Chilla – Protein-Packed Indian Breakfast (No Maida, No Eggs!)

Prep Time: 10 mins (plus 2 hrs soak time)
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Serves: 2-3 | Cuisine: Indian | Course: Breakfast / Snack

🫓 What is Moong Dal Chilla?

Moong Dal Chilla (also spelled Moong Dal Cheela) is a healthy, protein-rich Indian pancake made using soaked and ground yellow moong dal (split green gram). It’s a delicious alternative to regular dosas or omelettes — no eggs, no refined flour, yet filling, savory, and perfect for all age groups.

This quick dish is commonly made for breakfast or a light dinner across North Indian households. With a texture that’s slightly crispy outside and soft inside, Moong Dal Chilla pairs beautifully with green chutney, ketchup, or even plain curd.

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💪 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein – Great vegetarian alternative to eggs
• Gluten-free & Vegan
• Easy to digest – Great for kids and elderly
• Versatile – Add grated veggies, paneer, or spinach to mix it up
• Perfect for Weight Loss Diets

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🌾 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this nutritious breakfast:

• 1 cup Yellow Moong Dal (split)
• 1 small Onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium Tomato, chopped (optional)
• 1–2 Green chilies, chopped
• ½ inch Ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp Chopped coriander
• ¼ tsp Turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed (to grind)
• Oil or ghee for cooking

✅ Optional Add-ins: Grated carrot, spinach, capsicum, or paneer

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🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe

🥣 Step 1: Soak & Grind the Dal

Wash the moong dal 2–3 times and soak it in water for 2 hours. Drain the water and grind the dal with ginger and green chili into a smooth batter. Add just enough water to help blend — don’t make it too runny.

🍅 Step 2: Add Flavors

Pour the batter into a bowl. Add chopped onion, tomato, turmeric, coriander, and salt. Mix well.

Tip: You can also add ajwain (carom seeds) or cumin seeds for extra flavor and digestion support.

🔥 Step 3: Make the Chilla

Heat a non-stick tawa or cast-iron skillet on medium heat. Grease with a little oil.

Pour a ladleful of batter and spread it gently like a pancake. Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges.

Cook on one side for 2–3 minutes till golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.

Repeat with the remaining batter.

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🧂 Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with mint-coriander chutney, sweet chutney, or yogurt
• Roll it like a wrap with a paneer or veggie stuffing
• Eat as-is with a cup of masala chai or filter coffee!

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🧠 Tips for Perfect Moong Dal Chilla

1. Soaking Time: Soaking softens the dal and makes it easier to digest — don’t skip it!
2. Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 10 minutes before cooking for fluffier chillas.
3. Crispier Chilla? Use a cast-iron pan and cook on medium-high flame.
4. Stuffed Chilla: Add grated paneer or cheese between two chillas for a lunchbox treat.

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🔁 Variations You Can Try

• Spinach Moong Chilla: Blend spinach leaves into the batter for a green boost.
• Sprouted Moong Chilla: Use sprouted moong beans for an even higher nutrition profile.
• Stuffed Moong Dal Wrap: Add sautéed veggies inside and roll it up like a frankie.

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❓ FAQ – You Asked, We Answered

Q: Is moong dal chilla good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s high in protein and fiber, keeps you full for longer, and is cooked with very little oil.

Q: Can I store the batter?
Yes. You can store the batter in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just stir well before using.

Q: Can I skip onions or tomatoes?
Absolutely. You can customize ingredients as per taste or dietary needs.

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📦 Nutrition Info (Approx per Chilla)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 7g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

(Values will vary based on portion size and ingredients)

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📌 Final Thoughts

Moong Dal Chilla is one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: it’s healthy, quick, versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a new tiffin recipe, a diet-friendly meal, or simply want to break the monotony of parathas and sandwiches — this is a must-try!

👉 Bookmark this post or print the recipe — and tag us if you try it at home!