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A lunchbox is not just a meal, it is also a chance to provide both comfort and energy in a single box. When you are busy with other chores in the morning, you often look for something that can be prepared in a jiffy but is still filling. That’s where moong dal chilla fits in perfectly. It is light, soft, and made from soaked moong dal, which is full of plant-based protein.
Image Credits: Hebbars Kitchen/ YouTube
You can pour the soaked and ground split mung lentil batter on a hot pan, cook it like a pancake, and stuff it with almost anything, making it a delicious, customisable meal. Whether you like spicy, creamy, cheesy, or crunchy fillings, a chilla can hold it all. You just need the right filling. In addition, it stays soft and tasty even hours later in the lunchbox. Below in this guide, here are five different stuffing ideas that are easy to prepare and sure to bring variety and flavour to your lunch routine.
Paneer Veggie Delight
This stuffing is ideal for those who want something protein-rich but not too heavy. Start stuffing your moong dal chilla with grated paneer, finely chopped onions, and a few tablespoons of aromatic spices like chaat masala, chilli powder, and cumin seeds. This combination provides a creamy and soft texture in every bite. Make sure to sauté everything before using it so that it's not too watery. In this moong dal chilla, paneer acts as the main ingredient in the filling. It enhances both flavour and texture, making the dish nutritious and satisfying. You can pack this meal with a small ketchup or chutney dip to add a sweet-tangy flavour during lunch.
Image Credits: Freepik
Aloo Matar Masala
Aloo matar is a comforting combination that holds together inside the chilla without leaking. To whip up this classic mix, use mashed potatoes and boiled green peas. Then add a pinch of amchur powder and garam masala for a light spice. This aloo matar stuffing is soft and lightly spiced, providing that familiar home-style taste. Be sure to mash everything well and cook for a few minutes to dry out the excess moisture from the ingredients. This filling stays warm for a long time and can be enjoyed with a little pickle on the side.
Sprouted Moong And Methi Stuffing
This stuffing is packed with lots of protein, fibre, and iron, all thanks to sprouted lentils and fenugreek leaves. It also brings crunch and slight bitterness to the mixture in a good way. Start by tossing the ingredients in a pan with garlic, cumin seeds, and a pinch of salt to taste. This combination of sprouted lentils and greens is light but nutritious and great for kids and adults who like an earthy flavour. Use a steel box to pack these stuffed chillas so that they stay crispy and don’t get soggy. Additionally, to balance the flavours, you can add some curd in the lunchbox.
Image Credits: Freepik
Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry Stuffing
For this type of stuffing, you just need to take a handful of finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, and beans, then stir-fry them quickly over a high heat with ginger, green chillies, and sesame seeds. This mix brings colour, flavour, and crunch in every bite. Additionally, it allows you to use leftover veggies in a great way. It is important to keep the veggies slightly crisp to avoid a soggy filling. This fresh filling adds a lot of texture to the soft chilla, which works best when packed with a coriander chutney or a slice of lemon.
Image Credits: Freepik
Spinach, Corn And Cheese Blend
This one is cheesy, creamy and perfect for those who like a mild flavour. Make sure you use blanched spinach, boiled sweet corn, and grated cheese and then combine with pepper and salt. Melt the cheese in a pan slightly before stuffing so that it can hold the mixture together effectively. This stuffing option is both pantry-friendly and kid-friendly. To maintain the gooey texture of cheese, pack it warm and wrap the chilla in aluminium foil.
