Moong Dal & Paneer Chilla
vegetarian · family · en
A warm and nourishing Indian breakfast perfect for rainy monsoon mornings. These golden lentil pancakes are stuffed with spiced cottage cheese, offering a fantastic protein boost for the whole family.
- If the skillet becomes too hot, the batter will stick and won't spread evenly. Splash a little water and wipe it clean between making each chilla.
- For a dairy-free or vegan option, substitute the paneer with crumbled firm tofu.
- Always wash leafy greens like coriander very thoroughly, especially during the monsoon season.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 20 min
- Servings
- 4
- Age
- family
Ingredients
Watch how it's made
Steps
Drain the soaked moong dal and transfer it to a blender. Add the ginger, cumin seeds, green chili (if using), and a splash of water. Blend until you get a smooth, pourable batter.
Transfer the batter to a bowl. Mix in the turmeric, ajwain, salt, and finely chopped coriander leaves. Set aside.
In a separate small bowl, prepare the filling by tossing the grated paneer with a tiny pinch of salt and a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder.
Heat a non-stick skillet or flat pan (tawa) over medium heat. Lightly grease it with ghee. Pour a ladleful of the dal batter into the center and quickly spread it outward in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the edges lift easily. Drizzle a little ghee around the edges, flip carefully, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Flip it back over, place a spoonful of the paneer filling in the center, and fold the chilla in half. Serve warm immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes! You can soak and blend the dal the night before. Store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
How do I make this suitable for my baby?
Omit the salt and green chili. Ensure the chilla is cooked until very soft (use a lid to trap steam while cooking) and slice it into thick strips for easy self-feeding.
Why add ajwain (carom seeds)?
Ajwain is a traditional Indian spice known for its excellent digestive properties. It provides warmth to the body, which is especially beneficial during damp monsoon weather.
What you'll need
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