White Pongal (also known as Ven Pongal or Khara Pongal) is a savory South Indian dish made from rice and split yellow moong dal (lentils). It’s tempered with ghee, black pepper, cumin seeds, ginger, and curry leaves, giving it a rich flavor. Pongal is often served with coconut chutney and sambar, making it a popular breakfast or comfort meal.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup raw rice
1/4 cup split yellow moong dal (without skin)
2 1/2 to 3 cups water (for cooking rice and dal)
Salt to taste
For Tempering:
1-2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
1 tsp black peppercorns (crushed coarsely)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 inch piece of ginger, finely chopped or grated
8-10 curry leaves
A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
8-10 cashew nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse and Cook Rice and Moong Dal:
Rinse the rice and moong dal thoroughly.
In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the rice, moong dal, and 2 1/2 to 3 cups of water. Add a little salt.
Cook until the rice and dal are soft and mushy. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 3-4 whistles. If using a pot, simmer until fully cooked and soft, adding water as needed to get a porridge-like consistency.
2. Prepare the Tempering:
In a small pan, heat the ghee.
Add the cumin seeds and coarsely crushed black pepper. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
Add the ginger, curry leaves, asafoetida, and cashew nuts (if using). Fry until the cashews turn golden and the spices are fragrant.
3. Mix the Tempering with Rice and Dal:
Once the rice and dal mixture is cooked, mash it slightly for a smoother texture.
Pour the prepared tempering over the cooked pongal and mix well.
Adjust the salt and add more water or ghee if needed to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
Serve White Pongal hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or just plain yogurt.
Tips:
Consistency: Pongal should have a soft, slightly mushy consistency. Add more water if needed to get the desired texture.
Flavor Boost: If you want extra flavor, you can also add a little crushed black pepper and cumin directly into the rice-dal mixture while cooking.
Variations: Some people like adding a pinch of turmeric to give the dish a light golden hue. You can also add finely chopped green chilies to the tempering for a spicier version.
White Pongal is a comforting, rich dish, perfect for a cozy breakfast or light meal. The ghee and pepper give it warmth, while the rice and dal provide a smooth, satisfying texture.