Mint Dal / Pudina Paruppu Powder

Mint dhal powder is a flavorful and aromatic blend that combines the earthy richness of lentils with the refreshing essence of mint. It can be used to enhance the taste of various dishes and add a unique twist to your culinary creations. Here's a recipe for making mint dhal powder:

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (any variety you prefer, such as red lentils, yellow lentils, or split pigeon peas)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, washed and dried
• 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Dry Roasting

 In a heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the lentils over medium heat until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma. Stir frequently to ensure even roasting. Remove the lentils from the pan and set them aside.

Roasting Spices

 In the same pan, add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns. Dry roast them until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the roasted spices from the pan and allow them to cool.

Blending

 Once the roasted lentils and spices have cooled down, transfer them to a blender or spice grinder. Add the dried red chili flakes, turmeric powder, and salt.

Mint Addition

 Add the fresh mint leaves to the blender as well. Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a fine powder. You may need to do this in batches if your blender is small.

Storage

Once blended, let the mint dhal powder cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Usage

• Use mint dhal powder as a seasoning for rice dishes. Simply sprinkle it over cooked rice or mix it in while cooking for added flavor and color.
• Add a spoonful of mint dhal powder to soups, stews, and curries to enhance their taste and nutritional content.
• Incorporate the powder into yogurt-based dips or sauces for a refreshing minty twist.
• Use it as a marinade for grilled meats, vegetables, or tofu.
• Mix it with olive oil to create a flavorful salad dressing.

Feel free to adjust the quantities of spices and mint to suit your taste preferences. Mint dhal powder adds a delightful burst of flavor to your dishes and can be a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.