Millet and Lentil Stew (Hesaru Bele Saaru)

Looking for a delicious and nutritious recipe to aid your weight loss journey this monsoon? Try this unique Millet and Lentil Stew (Hesaru Bele Saaru) from Karnataka! Packed with Indian grains and flavors, this hearty stew is not only perfect for the rainy season but also helps you shed those extra pounds.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup split green gram (moong dal)
• 1/2 cup pearl millet (bajra)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Few curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

• Rinse the green gram (moong dal) and pearl millet (bajra) separately. Soak them in water for about 30 minutes.
• In a pressure cooker, add the soaked green gram and pearl millet along with 3 cups of water and some salt. Pressure cook for 5-6 whistles or until they are soft and well cooked.
• Heat ghee in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Allow them to splutter.
• Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Add ginger, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
• Add chopped tomatoes and turmeric powder. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
• Mash the cooked green gram and pearl millet lightly using a ladle and add them to the pan. Mix well.
• Add water as per your desired consistency. Adjust the salt if needed. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 4g

Give it a try and let us know how you like it! Share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking and happy weight loss journey!