How to make Ven Pongal?
Hello Friends welcome to SAS FOOD BLOGS, Today we are going to see how to make Ven Pongal.
Ven Pongal is another traditional South Indian dish that is commonly made during the Pongal festival. It is a savory dish made with rice and lentils, seasoned with black pepper, cumin, ginger, and ghee. Here’s a basic recipe for making Ven Pongal:
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup rice
- 1/4 cup split yellow moong dal (lentils)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1-2 green chillies, finely chopped (optional)
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 tablespoon cashews (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Water
Preparation Method
Today’s recipe is delicious and taste recipe that is Ven Pongal and so let’s gets started.
Step 1 (Ven Pongal)
- Wash the rice and lentils together. Cook them in a pressure cooker or a pot with about 4 cups of water until soft and mushy.
- In a separate pan, heat ghee. Add cumin seeds, black pepper, chopped ginger, asafoetida, green chillies (if using), and curry leaves. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
- Add cashews to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the cooked rice and lentils to the pan. Mix well with the spices.
- Add salt to taste and continue to cook on low heat, stirring to combine everything evenly. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed, and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the flavors meld.
Step 2 (Ven Pongal)
- Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of ghee on top. Ven Pongal is often served with coconut chutney or sambar, making it a wholesome and delicious meal.
- Similar to Sakkarai Pongal, Ven Pongal provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients.
- It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that is enjoyed not only during festivals but also as a breakfast or a main course in South Indian cuisine.
Ven Pongal is ready to serve, so you can try this recipe in your home and enjoy it and share the recipe with your family and friends.
Benefits of Ven Pongal:
Ven Pongal is a traditional South Indian dish made with rice, lentils, and a blend of spices. While it is primarily enjoyed for its delicious taste, it also offers several nutritional benefits:
Step 3 (Ven Pongal)
Protein Content:
The dish contains lentils, which are an excellent source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth and development.
Carbohydrates for Energy:
Rice, being the primary ingredient in Ven Pongal, provides complex carbohydrates. These carbohydrates are a significant source of energy for the body.
Dietary Fiber:
Both rice and lentils contribute to the fiber content of Ven Pongal. Dietary fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and may contribute to better blood sugar control.
Essential Nutrients:
Ven Pongal includes spices like black pepper, cumin, ginger, and curry leaves, each providing unique flavors and potential health benefits. For example, black pepper has antioxidant properties, while ginger may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Step 4 (Ven Pongal)
Ghee Benefits:
Ghee, used in the preparation of Ven Pongal, adds flavour and richness to the dish. It contains healthy fats, fat-soluble vitamins, and provides a source of energy.
Digestive Benefits:
The combination of rice, lentils, and spices in Ven Pongal may have digestive benefits. Ingredients like cumin and ginger are known for their digestive properties.
Asafoetida (Hing):
Asafoetida, used as a seasoning, not only adds a distinct flavour but also has been traditionally believed to aid digestion.
Low in Saturated Fat:
When prepared with moderation in the use of ghee and other fats, Ven Pongal can be a relatively low-fat dish, particularly low in saturated fats.
It’s important to note that while Ven Pongal is a nutritious dish, its overall nutritional profile may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Enjoying Ven Pongal as part of a balanced diet can contribute to a diverse and flavourful approach to meeting nutritional requirements.