Olivia Carter
Chana dal, also known as Bengal gram, is a nutritious and delicious legume widely used in Indian cuisine. Traditionally, chana dal is cooked on a stovetop, requiring a significant amount of time and attention. However, if you’re looking for a quicker and more convenient method, you can cook chana dal in a microwave oven. This method not only saves time but also retains the nutritional value and flavors of the dal.
Step 1: Soaking the Chana Dal
To ensure uniform cooking and to reduce the cooking time, it is important to soak the chana dal beforehand. Take the desired quantity of chana dal in a bowl and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Then, cover the dal with enough water and let it soak for at least 2 hours. This soaking process helps soften the dal and reduces the cooking time when using the microwave oven.
Step 2: Preparing the Chana Dal
After soaking, drain the water from the chana dal using a sieve or colander. Rinse the dal again under cold running water to remove any impurities. Now, transfer the dal to a microwave-safe bowl or casserole dish. Add fresh water to the dal, ensuring that the dal is completely covered. For every cup of soaked dal, add about 2 cups of water. However, adjust the water quantity as per your preferred consistency.
Step 3: Cooking the Chana Dal
Cover the bowl or casserole dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe cling wrap. Place the bowl in the microwave oven and cook on high power for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the bowl from the oven and stir the dal well. This helps in even cooking and prevents any lumps from forming. Return the bowl to the oven and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring in between, until the dal is tender and cooked to your liking.
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the quantity of dal being cooked. Keep an eye on the dal while it’s cooking to prevent it from boiling over.
Step 4: Seasoning the Chana Dal
Once the dal is cooked, it’s time to season it with spices and herbs of your choice. Heat a small skillet on the stovetop and add a tablespoon of oil or ghee. To this, add cumin seeds, minced garlic, chopped onions, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown and the spices release their aroma. Then, pour this seasoning over the cooked chana dal and mix well. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor.
That’s it! Your delicious and healthy chana dal is ready to be served. Enjoy it with steamed rice, roti, or naan for a complete and satisfying meal. Cooking chana dal in a microwave oven not only saves time but also offers convenience without compromising on taste and nutrition.
What is Chana Dal?
Chana dal, also known as Bengal gram, is a type of lentil that is commonly used in Indian cooking. It is made from split chickpeas and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Chana dal is a storehouse of essential nutrients and is a rich source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Nutritional Profile
Chana dal is highly nutritious and provides various health benefits. It is packed with protein, which is essential for growth and repair of body tissues. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
In addition to protein and fiber, chana dal is rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients play a vital role in maintaining overall health and boosting the immune system.
Uses in Cooking
Chana dal is a versatile ingredient and is widely used in Indian cuisine. It is often used to make various dishes such as curries, soups, and snacks. Chana dal can be cooked on the stovetop, in a pressure cooker, or even in a microwave oven.
When cooked, chana dal becomes soft and creamy, making it a perfect choice for dal preparations. It can be flavored with various spices and herbs to enhance its taste. Chana dal can also be ground into flour and used to make traditional Indian snacks like besan ka chilla and dhokla.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Protein | 19g |
| Fiber | 15g |
| Iron | 6.7mg |
| Magnesium | 165mg |
| Potassium | 875mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4mg |
Benefits of cooking Chana Dal in a Microwave Oven
Cooking Chana Dal in a microwave oven offers a range of benefits that make it a convenient and efficient way to prepare this delicious legume.
1. Time-saving
Using a microwave oven cuts down the cooking time significantly. Chana Dal can be cooked in just a few minutes, compared to traditional stovetop cooking methods that can take up to an hour.
2. Retains Nutritional Value
Microwaving Chana Dal preserves its nutritional value better than other cooking methods. The short cooking time and minimal use of water help retain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants present in the legume.
3. Energy-efficient
Compared to stovetop cooking, using a microwave oven requires less energy. It consumes up to 80% less energy, making it an eco-friendly option for cooking Chana Dal.
4. Hassle-free Cooking
Cooking Chana Dal in a microwave oven eliminates the need for constant monitoring and stirring. Simply place the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl, set the cooking time, and let the microwave do the work.
5. Easy Cleanup
Microwave cooking reduces the number of dishes to clean up. Since the Chana Dal is cooked in a single bowl, there is less mess and fewer utensils to wash afterwards.
6. Versatile Cooking Option
A microwave oven offers a variety of cooking options for Chana Dal. Whether you want to cook it plain or add spices and vegetables, the microwave allows for easy customization.
| Benefits | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time-saving | Cuts down cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods. |
| Retains Nutritional Value | Preserves vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants better than other cooking methods. |
| Energy-efficient | Requires less energy compared to stovetop cooking. |
| Hassle-free Cooking | Eliminates the need for constant monitoring and stirring. |
| Easy Cleanup | Reduces the number of dishes to clean up. |
| Versatile Cooking Option | Allows for easy customization with spices and vegetables. |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Chana Dal in a Microwave Oven
Chana dal, also known as split chickpeas, is a nutritious and delicious ingredient that can be easily cooked in a microwave oven. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a hearty and wholesome dish in no time.
Step 1: Soaking Chana Dal
Start by rinsing the chana dal under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the dal in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough water to cover it. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to soften the dal and reduce cooking time.
Step 2: Seasoning
While the chana dal is soaking, you can prepare the seasoning. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Step 3: Cooking
After the dal has soaked, drain the water and add the dal to the seasoned vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
Note: Make a few small holes in the plastic wrap to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Microwaving
Place the covered bowl of chana dal in the microwave oven and cook on high power for about 10-15 minutes. Stir the dal halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. The dal should become tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Resting and serving
Once the chana dal is cooked, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or Indian bread like roti or naan.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave oven, so adjust accordingly. Enjoy your homemade chana dal!
Step 1: Soaking Chana Dal
Before cooking chana dal in the microwave oven, it is important to soak it to help reduce the cooking time and make it easier to digest. Here’s how to soak chana dal:
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of chana dal
- 3 cups of water
Step 1: Measure 1 cup of chana dal and rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step 2: Transfer the chana dal to a large bowl and add 3 cups of water.
Step 3: Allow the chana dal to soak in water for at least 2 hours. You can also leave it to soak overnight if desired.
Step 4: After the soaking time is complete, drain the water from the chana dal using a colander or strainer.
Step 5: The chana dal is now ready to be cooked using the microwave oven. Proceed to the next step for instructions on how to cook it.
Step 2: Preparing the Microwave Oven
Before moving on to the actual cooking process, it is important to have your microwave oven ready. Follow these steps to prepare your microwave oven:
1. Clean the microwave oven:
Ensure that the microwave oven is clean and free from any food particles or debris. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the inside of the microwave. This will help maintain hygiene and prevent any unwanted smells or flavors from affecting your chana dal.
2. Place a microwave-safe dish:
Choose a microwave-safe dish that is suitable for cooking chana dal. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate the dal, as it may expand during the cooking process. You can use a glass or ceramic dish, as long as it is labeled as microwave-safe.
3. Add the chana dal and water:
Measure the desired amount of chana dal and add it to the microwave-safe dish. Rinse the dal under running water to remove any impurities. Drain off the excess water and add fresh water to the dish. The ratio of dal to water is usually 1:3, but you can adjust it according to your preference.
4. Cover the dish:
Place a microwave-safe lid or cover on the dish to prevent any splatters or spills. If you don’t have a microwave-safe lid, you can cover the dish with a microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure to leave a small vent or opening to allow steam to escape during the cooking process.
5. Place in the microwave oven:
Put the dish with the chana dal and water mixture into the microwave oven. Position it in the center of the turntable to ensure even cooking. Close the microwave door securely.
Note: If your microwave oven has a rotating turntable, it is recommended to use it for better heat distribution.
By following these steps, you will have your microwave oven prepared and ready for cooking the chana dal. In the next step, we will proceed to cook the dal in the microwave oven.
Step 3: Cooking Chana Dal in the Microwave Oven
Once you have soaked the chana dal, it’s time to cook it in the microwave oven. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked chana dal:
- Drain the soaked chana dal and transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add enough water to cover the dal completely. For every cup of chana dal, you’ll need approximately 2 cups of water.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe cling wrap.
- Place the bowl in the microwave oven and cook on high power for 12-15 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep a close eye on it.
- After the initial cooking time, remove the bowl from the microwave and give the chana dal a stir. Check the consistency of the dal and if it’s too thick, add some more water.
- Recover the bowl and place it back in the microwave. Cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the chana dal is soft and fully cooked.
- Once the dal is cooked, remove it from the microwave oven and let it sit covered for a few minutes to allow any excess water to be absorbed.
- Your perfectly cooked chana dal is now ready to be served as a side dish or as a main course with rice or chapati!
Cooking chana dal in the microwave oven is a quick and convenient method that yields delicious results. Serve it hot, garnished with your favorite herbs and spices, and enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish!
FAQ
Can I cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven?
Yes, you can cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven. It is a quick and convenient way to prepare this dish.
What ingredients do I need to cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven?
To cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven, you will need Chana Dal (split chickpeas), water, turmeric powder, salt, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, green chilies, curry leaves, onions, tomatoes, and oil.
How do I cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven?
To cook Chana Dal in a microwave oven, first, rinse the Chana Dal and soak it for about 30 minutes. Then, drain the water and transfer the Dal to a microwave-safe bowl. Add water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Cook on high power for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, heat oil and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Cook for a minute and then add onions and tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes. Add this mixture to the cooked Dal and microwave for an additional 3 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
