Pesara pachadi: A Taste of Nostalgia and Wholesome Comfort of Moong dal

Happy Shivaratri! :) you might read it on a different day, but today is a very auspicious day for us

Shivaratri has always held a special place in my heart. It's one of those days that brings a mixture of memories—some joyful, others a little unnerving. But when I think of this day, it's the memories with my family, especially with my Pednanna (dad's elder brother) and Mamma (dad's mom), that I hold most dear.

Growing up, they lived in the flat next to ours in Hyderabad (the same people I referred to in my potato curry post), where both my dad and pednanna decided to buy flats side by side even before I was born. Those flats, those homes, became my world, filled with laughter, warmth, and an unbreakable bond of family. The connection we shared during festivals like Shivaratri is something I still cherish deeply.

Most of the Shivaratris', relatives would come over, filling our home with vibrant discussions, stories of the divine, and spiritual talks, while my sister and I, being the little foodies we were, would indulge in home-cooked meals, blissfully unaware of the spiritual significance of fasting. Our evenings were marked by watching Lord Shiva movies on channels like ETV and Gemini. Staying up as late as possible, with the goal of reaching midnight (my personal record was 12 AM!), was a thrilling challenge. I can still see those nights, as if they were just yesterday.

But, as life always brings a mix of experiences, not all of my Shivaratri memories are as sweet. I remember being around 14 or 15 years old, and like many kids that age, I had developed an intense craving for pizza. It was a new obsession, and I decided, despite my mom's best efforts, to have pizza on Shivaratri. I can still recall my stubbornness, how I insisted on eating it, and how my mom patiently tried to stop me from eating out that day.

Well, the next day, was something I wish to erase from my memory. I had terrible vomiting, which ended with an injection and a rather embarrassing incident in an auto on the way back home. My poor sister had to deal with me while I struggled with motion sickness. Every time I think of that incident, I cringe a little.

Fast forward to last year (2024), another Shivaratri experience still lingers in my mind. I had traveled by train with a two of my very good friends in first AC, overate, and then fell asleep without bare minimum walking/ streching. Within 2 hours, I woke up to a feeling of suffocation, breathlessness, claustrophobic, and what I now recognize as a panic attack. It was one of those nights that seemed like an endless loop of discomfort. What followed was a week of similar symptoms, leaving me with a lingering fear that still resurfaces at times.

Though those weren't pleasant experiences, they taught me valuable lessons. Today, as I reflect on all that has happened, I realize that Shivaratri is a reminder not just to fast or to eat light but to truly listen to our bodies. It’s a day for homely, comforting food (in case you aren't fasting) that nourishes not just the body but the soul too. And this year, as I fast with my husband, I am doing so not as a reaction to last year's events but as an expression of gratitude to Shiva for the strength he has given me through it all.

Now, let me introduce you to one of my absolute favorites; a dish that has been a constant in my life, passed down from my mom, and one that both my father-in-law and I absolutely adore. After all this reminiscing about my Shivaratri, we are finally addressing the 'elephant in the room'—Pesarapachadi (or Moong Dal Chutney). A simple yet satisfying dish that beautifully captures the essence of wholesome, comforting food. Though it wasn’t always my first choice growing up, today, it’s something I deeply cherish. With its nourishing qualities and soul-soothing taste, it’s a dish that has earned a special place in my heart.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup moong dal (yellow split lentils)
• 9-10 dried red chilies
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Water (for grinding)

Instructions:

1. Soak the Moong Dal:
   Start by rinsing 1 cup of moong dal thoroughly. Soak it in water for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This softens the dal and makes it easier to grind.

2. Grind the Spices:
   In a grinder, add the dried red chilies, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Along with the soaked moong dal, add a little water to help with grinding. The consistency should be slightly thicker than dosa batter—just thick enough to hold its shape.

3. Adjust the Consistency:
   Now comes the magic: add 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice post grinding. This not only thins out the chutney but adds a fresh tangy flavor that perfectly complements the earthiness of the moong dal.

4. Serve & Enjoy:
   Serve your Pesarapachadi with steaming hot rice. For the ultimate indulgence, add a spoonful of ghee on top. The warmth of the rice and the richness of the ghee make this dish absolutely divine.

Srishti’s Secret Tip for the Perfect Pachadi:

The secret to the perfect Pesara pachadi lies in getting the consistency just right. When grinding the moong dal and spices, it’s essential that the mixture is slightly thicker than dosa batter. This helps to hold the flavors together. Once you’ve ground it to the right texture, add fresh lemon juice to give it that zesty kick. But don’t add too much lemon at once—start with 2 tablespoons, and if needed, adjust to your taste. The lemon juice is what transforms the chutney, balancing the earthiness of the moong dal with a refreshing tang and also thins the pachadi. Trust me, the balance between the spices and tangy lemon will elevate this dish into a full-on comfort food experience!

Srishti’s Healing Tip for the Perfect Plate:

Pesarapachadi is like the essence of Shivaratri itself—simple, pure, and deeply nourishing for the soul. Just as the festival invites reflection and inner peace, this dish offers a quiet comfort that heals from within. The moong dal, with its gentle flavor, paired with a dash of lemon and the richness of ghee, creates a harmony that mirrors the calm energy of the night. It’s a reminder that true nourishment comes from simplicity and mindfulness, allowing you to feel grounded and connected, just like the spirit of Shivaratri.

Why You Will Love It:

Pesarapachadi is a dish that grows on you. At first glance, it may seem simple, but once you take that first bite, you will understand its true magic. The delicate balance of moong dal, the slight heat from the chilies, and the zesty kick of lemon make every spoonful a comforting experience. It’s not just food—it’s a reminder to embrace life’s simplicity, to savor moments of peace, and to nourish yourself deeply. This dish will quickly become your go-to for those times when you need something that’s light on the stomach but rich in flavor, comfort, and warmth. It's the perfect blend of wholesome and heartwarming, and once you try it, you will fall in love.