Chakkar Pongal

Chakkar Pongal is a delightful South Indian dessert made with rice, moong dal, and jaggery, enriched with the goodness of protein and a hint of cardamom. This sweet dish is not only satisfying but also a wholesome treat packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

• Rice - 1/2 cup
• Moong dal - 1/4 cup
• Jaggery - 1/2 cup (grated)
• Water - 3 cups
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Cardamom powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cashews - 2 tablespoons
• Raisins - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - a pinch

Steps

1. In a pot, dry roast the moong dal on low heat until it turns golden brown and aromatic. Set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the rice and roasted moong dal, and pour in 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice and dal are fully cooked and soft.
4. Once cooked, add the grated jaggery and stir until it dissolves completely.
5. Add cardamom powder and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
6. In a separate small pan, heat ghee and fry the cashews and raisins until golden brown.
7. Pour the ghee with cashews and raisins over the Pongal and mix well.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional cashews if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Water: 0.75 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from moong dal, promoting muscle health.
• Contains healthy fats from ghee and nuts, supporting heart health.

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