Ven Pongal Recipe

step 1

• STEP 1.In a cooker add ½ cup sona masoori rice, 1 cup split yellow moong dal, salt to taste and 4 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3 whistles and the turn heat to low and simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow pressure to release naturally.

step 2

• STEP 1.Open the cooker and lightly mash the rice and dal mixture, to make it a little mushy but still having a little grainy texture. Do not mash it to a complete pulp. Keep aside.

step 3

• STEP 1.In a preheated pan add 2 tbsp ghee and allow to melt. Then add 2 tbsp halved cashew nuts (optional). Roast on low to medium heat for1 to 2 minutes till light brown and crispy.

step 4

• STEP 1.Next add 1 inch ginger finely chopped, 1 tsp roughly pounded black peppercorns, 1 sprig torn curry leaves which brings flavour.

step 5

• STEP 1.At this stage add the mashed rice and dal into the pan with the spices. on low heat, mix well to combine the rice with the roasted spices and cashews. Check for salt and adjust accordingly.