Pongal Podi

Pongal Podi is a flavorful and nutritious South Indian dish made with rice and lentils, tempered with aromatic spices. This wholesome meal is not only easy to prepare but also offers a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Ingredients

• Rice - 100 grams
• Moong dal (yellow split lentils) - 50 grams
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ginger (grated) - 1 teaspoon
• Curry leaves - 10 leaves
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 500 ml
• Cashew nuts - 2 tablespoons (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the rice and moong dal in water until the water runs clear, then soak them together for 15 minutes.
2. In a pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and black pepper, sautéing until aromatic.
3. Add grated ginger and curry leaves to the pot, stirring for a minute.
4. Drain the soaked rice and dal, then add them to the pot, mixing well with the spices.
5. Pour in 500 ml of water and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice and dal are cooked through and the water is absorbed.
7. If using, toast the cashew nuts in a separate pan until golden brown, then sprinkle them over the Pongal before serving.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional curry leaves if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein and fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Contains essential nutrients that boost energy levels.

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