Steamed Lentil & Chickpea Baskets: A Healthy & Fun Snack for Kids
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About Steamed Lentil & Chickpea Baskets: A Healthy & Fun Snack for Kids
Looking for a fun and healthy snack that's as delicious as it is nutritious? These Steamed Lentil & Chickpea Baskets are a delightful treat inspired by traditional Indian cuisine, perfect for both kids and adults.These gluten-free baskets are bursting with protein and fiber from a wholesome blend of lentils and chickpeas. Their unique basket shape adds an element of playful charm, making healthy eating an enjoyable experience.Steaming locks in the vibrant flavors and nutrients, creating a wholesome snack that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body. Serve them hot with your favorite chutney or dipping sauce for an unforgettable flavor experience.
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Recipe Time & More
Prep1 hour 30 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total2 hours
Ingredients
For the Baskets
- 0.5 cup Pigeon Pea bengal gram dal, chana dal
- 0.5 cup Lentil gram dal, masoor dal, red
- 1 cup Mung Bean yellow
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1 tsp Chili Pepper finely chopped, green
- 1 tsp Ginger finely minced
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tbsp Onion finely chopped
- 2 clove Cloves
- 2 tbsp Mint chopped
For Steaming
- Clarified Butter vegetable oil, as needed, for greasing idli trays, ghee
Instructions
- Soak the bengal gram dal, yellow moong dal, and red gram dal in water for 1 ½ hours. This allows the lentils to soften and blend smoothly.
- Drain the lentils completely. Grind them into a coarse paste. A slightly coarse texture provides a pleasant bite.
- Add salt to the lentil paste and mix thoroughly.
- Grind the cumin seeds, ginger, and cloves. Add this spice mixture to the lentil paste.
- Mix in the chopped onion, green chilies, and mint leaves.
- Soak the white chickpeas for 1 ½ hours. Pressure cook them until two whistles blow. This ensures the chickpeas are tender.
- Drain the cooked chickpeas and add salt. Mix well.
- Take small portions of the lentil mixture and shape them into small baskets with thick bases and walls. This will prevent them from breaking during steaming.
- Fill the lentil baskets with the cooked chickpeas.
- Add water to the idli steamer. Grease the idli trays with ghee or vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Steam the filled lentil baskets for 15 minutes. The steaming process cooks the lentils thoroughly and melds the flavors together.
- Transfer the steamed baskets to a plate. Serve hot with tomato sauce or green chutney.
Recipe Notes
Good To Know
- Drain the water to form a coarse paste.
- Sprouted moong beans can be added to the filling.
- Tempered mustard seeds can be mixed into the filling.
- For extra crunch and a nutty flavor, sprinkle a layer of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts inside the baskets just before steaming.
- For a kid-friendly presentation, press small pieces of colorful steamed vegetables (like diced carrots, peas, or corn) onto the outer surface before steaming.
- To ensure the baskets hold their shape, lightly grease the molds or small bowls with oil or line them with parchment paper for easy unmolding.
Expert Tips
- Experiment with different fillings! Consider using finely chopped vegetables, cooked lentils, or even a seasoned meat or tofu mixture.
- Serve these steamed baskets with a flavorful dipping sauce. A chutney, yogurt dip, or even a simple soy sauce mixture would complement the delicate flavors.
- Don't overfill the baskets. Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion during steaming.
Storage Instructions
- These baskets can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Re-steam for 2-3 minutes before serving to refresh their texture.
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Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 177kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 6gFat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.6gSodium: 1710mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1g
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5 Comments
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So delicious! Excited to make it.
Thanks for the inspiration! Looks tasty.
This looks delightful! Thanks for the recipe.
This is perfect! Can’t wait to taste it.
This looks divine! Can’t wait to make it.