PARIPPU(Dhal/Daal/Lentils curry)

Parippu is a delicious dish and it has a significant place among Sri Lankan food culture.Mostly it is taken with rice or bread. Now let’s get a little idea about “Dhal, Daal, Lentils”. I think most western people do not have any idea about Daal. Because it is a south Asian originated food. If we talk about history of this food, it is dating back to 303B. History books tell us special kind of Daal used to celebrate Chandraguptha Maurya’s wedding. How wonderful! We are going to prepare an ancient dish!

There are few types of Daal(lentils) in different colors and in different tastes.

*Chana Daal            *Panchratna Daal             *Urad Daal               *Masoor Daal(red lentils)

In Sri Lanka Masoor Daal(red lentils) are very famous. It is very easy to prepare. That’s why it is been famous for a very long time. Actually, you can cook same kind of Daal(lentils) to bring out different kind of tastes. That depends on the cooking method you are using. It is marvelous. Isn’t it?

The majority of lentils production comes from Canada, India and Turkey. Now let’s take a look of nutrition facts about lentils. Lentils (Daal) are low in calories and a wonderful source of protein. And also, it is rich in iron and folate. Daal can reduce several heart disease risk factors. Lentils are high in fibre and carbohydrates. It is naturally gluten free. According to most sources black lentils are the healthiest among the other lentils.

Most importantly lentils are an inexpensive way of getting a wide range of nutrients. Lentils are a good meat alternative because they are made up of 25% protein. And also, lentils are packed with Vitamin B, Zinc, Potassium. Now I think you have a good idea this wonderful food.

Ingredients

• Dhal 1 cup,
• Chilly powder 1/2 teaspoon,
• Turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon,
• Chilli pepper,
• Sliced onions,
• Sliced white onions
• Mustard
• Curry leaves(optional)

Directions

*Firstly, all the spices (exclude mustard) and half of the curry leaves and water (add water until cover the lentils surface) should be boiled for 3-4 minutes.

 *Then add oil to a frying pan and place it on the stove. When the oil becoming hot add mustard and curry leaves.

*Then add the lentils mixture that you have prepared in the first step.

*the stir it for 3-4 minutes.

*Now Parippu (daal) curry is ready to be served.

Now it's time to enjoy the Sri Lankan Parippu curry.