Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Maa Chole Ki Dal Paratha?
It is a traditional Pakistani dish consisting of a whole wheat flatbread stuffed with a protein-rich filling of yellow split peas and split Urad Dal, seasoned with aromatic spices.
Which types of lentils are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 50g of yellow split peas and 100g of split Urad Dal with skin.
Is Spiced Maa Chole Ki Dal Paratha vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is completely vegetarian and made with plant-based ingredients like lentils and whole wheat flour.
How many parathas does this recipe make?
The dough is divided into 8 equal-sized balls, which yields 8 parathas.
How long does it take to cook the lentils?
The lentils should be cooked on medium heat for approximately 20-25 minutes until they are soft and cooked through.
What is the calorie count for a serving of this paratha?
One serving of Spiced Maa Chole Ki Dal Paratha contains approximately 375 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 15 grams of protein.
What spices are used to season the lentil filling?
The lentils are seasoned with ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and ground cumin.
Should the lentils be mashed?
Yes, after cooking and cooling, the dal mixture should be mashed slightly to make it easier to incorporate into the dough.
How much whole wheat flour is required?
The recipe requires 2 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour.
How long should the dough rest before rolling?
The dough should be covered with a damp cloth and allowed to rest for 15 minutes.
How do I prepare the herbs for the filling?
You should chop 8 green onions, 5 green chilies, and 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander to mix into the mashed dal.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7.5 grams of fat per serving in this recipe.
How large should I roll out the parathas?
Each paratha should be rolled into a thin round pancake approximately 6-8 inches in diameter.
What is the best way to cook the parathas?
Cook them on a hot tava (griddle) over medium heat, brushing with ghee or oil until both sides are golden brown and crisp.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
The instructions specify washing them thoroughly until the water runs clear, rather than a long soak.
What can I serve with these parathas?
They are best served warm with yogurt or a side of chutney.
How many green chilies are included in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 5 chopped green chilies for a spicy kick.
Is Urad Dal used with or without the skin?
The recipe specifically calls for split Urad Dal with skin.
How much carbohydrate is in a serving?
Each serving contains 75 grams of carbohydrates.
How much oil or ghee is needed for cooking?
The recipe lists 3 tablespoons of oil, though ghee can also be used for brushing the parathas.
What is the preparation method for the ginger and garlic?
They are used in paste form, with 1 teaspoon of each mixed into the cooking lentils.
Does the dough require multiple kneading sessions?
Yes, knead for 2 minutes initially, then rest the dough, and knead again for 3 minutes to make it smooth.
What are the main tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include Pakistani, paratha, maa chole ki dal, vegetarian, comfort food, and healthy.
How is the stuffing incorporated into the dough?
In this version, the mashed dal is mixed directly with the flour to form the dough, then additional ghee is added during the folding process.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch or dinner?
Yes, it is a versatile dish suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
How much cumin is used?
One tablespoon of ground cumin is added for flavor.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, salt is added to the lentils during cooking and more can be added to the dough to taste.
What gives the paratha its golden color?
The turmeric powder in the filling and the browning on the griddle give the paratha its golden hue.
Should the dough be kept covered?
Yes, it should be covered with a damp cloth while resting to prevent it from drying out.