Drumstick Dal/ सहजन की दाल
Also Known as Drumstick Lentil Soup, Moringa Infused Lentil Soup
Drumstick Dal – Experience the rich, earthy taste of this traditional dish made with lentils and drumsticks, a delightful and wholesome addition to your meals.
- Cook Time: 30.00 min
- Serving size: # 4
- Serve: Hot
- Per Serving Calore: 230.39 Kcal
Drumstick Dal is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Packed with moringa, this dal helps boost immunity, improves digestion, and supports overall health. It's rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support skin health. Adding Drumstick Dal to your weekly menu is a delicious way to nourish your body with all the goodness of lentils and moringa. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for all seasons!
Nutrition Facts
Amount per Serving
Vitamins & Minerals
Meal Planning Tips
Drumstick Dal is not just a comforting, hearty dish—it’s an absolute health booster that can bring a delicious twist to your weekly meal plan. This traditional Indian recipe, made from lentils and moringa (drumstick), is packed with essential nutrients and is incredibly rich in protein, iron, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting, this dish is easy to prepare, and with a few simple tweaks, you can elevate it to suit your taste!
The main ingredient, moringa (also called drumstick), is a miracle plant that is packed with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and improve heart health. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that blends perfectly with the earthy taste of lentils. When combined, they form a power-packed dish that's not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
One of the best things about making Drumstick Dal is its versatility. You can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. If you prefer a spicy kick, you can add extra green chilies or garam masala. For those who love creamy textures, adding a spoonful of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt can enhance the richness of the dal. If you're looking for a more tangy flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice works wonders!
Seasonal Variations: Drumstick Dal is typically enjoyed in the summer or monsoon seasons when fresh drumsticks are in abundance. However, this dish can be savored year-round with frozen or dried moringa pods, making it a reliable and comforting option no matter the time of year.
Why Should You Add Drumstick Dal to Your Diet?
Drumstick Dal isn’t just about flavor; it’s about nourishing your body with the right nutrients. The high protein content from lentils, combined with the antioxidant-rich properties of drumsticks, supports your immune system, promotes better digestion, and helps maintain healthy skin. It’s also a great source of fiber, which helps keep your gut health in check and keeps you feeling full longer—perfect for those looking to manage their weight or maintain balanced blood sugar levels.
This dish is an ideal option for anyone looking for a wholesome, plant-based meal, especially if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. It pairs wonderfully with rice or roti (Indian flatbread) and can easily become a main course or a side dish in any meal. The best part? It’s both budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making it a staple in many households!
Customizations and Variations:
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment! You can swap lentils with toor dal or chana dal for different flavors. Add in some spinach or fenugreek leaves for extra vitamins, or a handful of tomatoes for a burst of tang. You can even adjust the spice levels to suit your preferences—whether you like it mild or fiery hot!
Perfect for Any Season: As mentioned, drumsticks are typically available during summer and monsoon seasons, but this dal is adaptable. The fresh, seasonal drumsticks add a vibrant taste and texture, while frozen or dried moringa pods can be used in the off-season, making this dish a year-round delight!
Overall, Drumstick Dal is more than just a meal—it’s a way to fuel your body with the goodness of nature while enjoying a flavorful, hearty dish. So, why not add this power-packed, nutrient-dense dal to your diet plan today? It's not only delicious but also nourishing for your body and soul.
Preparing Drumstick Dal: Begin by washing the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Once clean, set them aside to drain for a few minutes. Time taken: 2 minutes
Cooking the Lentils: In a pressure cooker or large pot, add the washed lentils along with enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of turmeric and salt. If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 3-4 whistles, or if using a pot, cook on medium heat until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. Time taken: 12-15 minutes
Sautéing the Seasonings: In a separate pan, heat some oil or ghee. Once hot, add cumin seeds, a pinch of hing (asafoetida), and let them sizzle. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Time taken: 5 minutes
Adding the Aromatics: To the onions, add ginger and garlic paste, followed by chopped tomatoes. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate. Time taken: 6 minutes
Incorporating the Drumsticks: Add chopped drumstick pieces to the sautéed mixture. Stir everything well, and cook for a couple of minutes. Time taken: 3-4 minutes
Combining the Dal: Once the lentils are cooked and softened, add them to the pan with the sautéed spices and drumsticks. Mix everything together well. Add water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes so that all the flavors meld together. Time taken: 10-15 minutes
Finishing Touch: Finally, garnish the dal with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Stir in a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. Time taken: 2 minutes
Serving the Dish: Serve your Drumstick Dal hot with steamed rice or naan, and enjoy the delicious, nutritious meal you've just prepared! Time taken: Ready to serve!
