Ven Pongal recipe

 Ven Pongal is a popular South Indian dish made with rice and lentils. It is a delicious and comforting dish often enjoyed for breakfast or as a main course. Here's a recipe to prepare Ven Pongal:



Ingredients:

  • 1 cup raw rice
  • 1/4 cup split yellow moong dal (lentils)
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1/2 inch ginger, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
  • 10-12 cashew nuts
  • A few curry leaves
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice and lentils together under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a pressure cooker or large pot, add the rice, lentils, and water. Pressure cook for 4-5 whistles or cook in a pot until the rice and lentils are soft and well-cooked. Mash the cooked rice and lentils lightly with a spoon or potato masher.
  3. In a separate pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and black peppercorns. Sauté until they start to crackle.
  4. Add the grated ginger, asafoetida, cashew nuts, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until the cashews turn golden brown.
  5. Pour this tempering mixture into the cooked rice and lentils. Mix well.
  6. Season with salt to taste and mix again.
  7. Simmer the Ven Pongal on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
  8. Remove from heat and serve hot.
  9. Ven Pongal is traditionally served with coconut chutney, sambar, or tomato chutney. You can also enjoy it with a side of pickle.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Ven Pongal!

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