Can leftover dal be turned into cheap and filling parathas?

Question

Can your leftover dal be turned into cheap and filling parathas? Get the recipe for this classic and budget-friendly way to avoid food waste.

Answer 1

Yes, leftover dal can be transformed into delicious and nutritious parathas. This is a great way to reduce food waste and create a satisfying meal.

Detailed Explanation:

Turning leftover dal into parathas is a simple and effective way to repurpose it. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Dough: Make a soft, pliable dough using whole wheat flour (atta), a pinch of salt, and water. Knead it well and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash the Dal: Lightly mash the leftover dal. If it's too watery, cook it down a bit to remove excess moisture. You can also add a tablespoon or two of besan (gram flour) to absorb moisture.
3. Add Seasonings (Optional): Enhance the flavor of the dal by adding finely chopped onions, green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, and spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, or garam masala. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
4. Make the Parathas: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll out one ball into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the dal mixture in the center. Bring the edges of the circle together to seal the filling, forming a ball again. Gently flatten the ball and roll it out into a paratha, being careful not to tear the dough.
5. Cook the Parathas: Heat a flat griddle or tawa over medium heat. Place the paratha on the hot griddle and cook for a minute or two on each side, until lightly browned. Drizzle with ghee or oil and cook until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
6. Serve: Serve the dal parathas hot with yogurt, pickle, or chutney.

Pro Tip:

To prevent the parathas from tearing while rolling, ensure the dal filling is not too watery and the dough is well-rested. Also, roll the paratha gently and evenly, applying consistent pressure.