When it comes to comforting and nutritious food, dal is the first thing which comes to everyone’s mind. Easy to prepare, it is an amazing source of protein and many other nutrients. Whether you make khichdi or pair it with rice and roti, it is always the best choice for a quick and healthy meal. But do you know that even the leftover cooked dal can be transformed into some mouthwatering dishes. From cheela for breakfast to pakoras for snacks, there are many ways to reuse your lentil curry.
Dal Paratha
Parathas are a hearty dish that holds a great importance in Indian cuisine and this delicious flatbread is a fantastic way to incorporate leftover dal into your breakfast or lunch. All you have to do is mix mashed dal with whole wheat flour, chopped onions, and spices like cumin and coriander. Knead into a soft dough, roll it out and cook like your regular parathas with ghee. Pair with a dollop of yoghurt or pickles and your hearty meal is ready.
Bedami Puri
If you want to have something crispy and filling snack this evening, transform your leftover dal into yummy bedami puri. This flavourful snack is made by combining leftover lentil curry with all-purpose flour, salt and baking soda. You can enjoy it with any spicy chutney.
Dal Tikki
Get over aloo tikki and serve these protein-rich appetiser to your guests. Made by pan-frying patties made with leftover dal, breadcrumbs (or besan), chopped onions, cilantro with a touch of garam masala, it is definitely a crowd pleaser. You can also bake dal tikkis to make them healthier. Serve it with chutneys or raita.
Dal Cheela
Usually cheela is made with besan, vegetables and a few spices. But what if you add a punch of protein-packed dal to the savoury pancake. To prepare dal cheela, blend leftover dal with chickpea flour, chopped vegetables like onions and green chilies and create a batter with water. Cook in a pan until golden brown and enjoy as breakfast.
Dal Pakora
Dal pakora, one of the best Indian snacks that is enjoyed with tea or chutneys. Loved by everyone, these fritters are made by mixing leftover dal along with gram flour, rice flour, onions and a few spices. Deep fried until crispy, it is accompanied by mint or tamarind chutney for a perfect monsoon evening snack.
Dal Dhokli
Dal dhokli is a renowned Gujarati and Rajasthani delicacy that is served as a comforting meal. It can even be made with your leftover dal for your next meal. Just make koftas of wheat flour and dunk it in the leftover dal. Served with a dollop of ghee, it can satisfy your soul. You can also enjoy it with rice.