Dal Sticks- Appetizer

Appetizers were probably my mum's favorite among food categories. She used to explore unique combinations until the desired results of something extremely flavorful was achieved. These dal sticks also are one among her experiments. It is an appetizer that is rare and whenever i have served this to my guests, i always get a review that its a very different yet tasty one. Not many people have explored the idea of using dal in this way....but recalling what my dad told me today  and i quote

"As you know she used to make even a simplest dish with passion, decorate it to make it interesting and above all serve with love for one and all." And that is exactly how i would love for all of my readers to follow my mum's recipes too.......Enjoy!!

Ingredients:

Moong dal washed- 100 gms
Ginger- 1" piece
Green Chillies- 2
Garlic cloves- 4-6
Chopped fresh coriander leaves- 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds- 1 tsp
Asafoetida- 1 pinch
Water- 350 ml
Salt- to taste
Oil- to deep fry

Method:

• Soak dal for 2 hours.
• Grind it with 50 ml of water , ginger, garlic, green chillies and then add the remaining water to it.
• Take 1 tbsp of oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, pinch of asafoetida, ground dal , salt and chopped fresh coriander leaves.
• Stir constantly on high flame till the mixture thickens.
• Grease a square dish and pour the mixture into it.
• Press it and spread it evenly.
• Cool it completely. Now cut it into sticks 1/2" * 3" and deep fry till done.