Traditional South Indian Savory Ven PongalVeg

Enjoy the authentic taste of comfort with this traditional South Indian Ven Pongal. This savory ghee-based porridge is a wholesome blend of rice and split moong dal, toasted to perfection for a creamy, nutty flavor profile. Infused with aromatic ginger, spicy green chilies, and a rich tempering of crunchy cashews, cumin, and black peppercorns, this dish is a classic and incredibly flavorful, it is a soul-warming meal perfect for festive celebrations or any day of the week.

Traditional South Indian Savory Ven Pongal
Prep:5 min
Cook:20 min
Total:25 min
Serves:3
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Ingredients

1 cup Yellow Moong Dal

1 cup Rice

4 cups Water

2 Green Chilli

1 tsp Ginger (chopped)

1 tsp Turmeric Powder

to taste Salt

2 tbsp Clarified Butter (Ghee)

24 Cashew Nuts (Chopped)

1 tbsp Black Peppercorns

1 tsp Asafoetida

1 tbsp Cumin Seeds

as needed Curry Leaves

Instructions

1

In a pan over high heat, toast the split moong dal and rice together until they begin to turn golden brown and become fragrant.

2

Transfer the mixture to a bowl, rinse, add fresh water, and soak for at least 20 minutes.

3

Transfer the soaked dal and rice into a pressure cooker. Add 4 cups of water, chopped ginger, chopped green chilies, salt, and turmeric powder.

4

Close the lid and cook for four whistles. Once done, allow the pressure to subside naturally before opening.

5

In a separate tempering pan, heat the ghee. Add cashew nuts and fry until golden brown. Remove and set aside a few for garnishing.

6

In the same ghee, add cumin seeds, black peppercorns, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté briefly.

7

Pour the tempered spices and fried cashews into the cooked rice-dal mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.

8

Serve hot, garnished with the reserved cashews.

Nutrition Facts

3 servings per recipe