Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re going to prepare a comforting and nutritious soup – Bajra and Lentil Soup. This wholesome soup combines the goodness of bajra (pearl millet) and lentils, making it a perfect meal option for a chilly day. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make Bajra and Lentil Soup, you will need:

• 1/2 cup Bajra (pearl millet), soaked overnight
• 1/2 cup Split yellow moong dal (lentils), soaked
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tomato, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 inch Ginger, grated
• 1 Green chili, slit
• 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp Red chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp Garam masala powder
• 1 tbsp Ghee or Oil
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups Water or Vegetable broth
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cooking Bajra and Lentils

1. Soak bajra and lentils: Wash and soak bajra and lentils separately overnight or for at least 6-8 hours.
2. Pressure cook: In a pressure cooker, cook soaked bajra with 2 cups of water until tender (about 4-5 whistles). Similarly, cook soaked lentils with 2 cups of water until soft (about 3-4 whistles). Set aside.

Step 2: Making the Soup

1. Heat ghee/oil: In a large pot or saucepan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Tempering: Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté for a minute until aromatic.
3. Add onions: Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
4. Add tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook until tomatoes are soft and oil starts to separate.
5. Combine cooked bajra and lentils: Add the cooked bajra and lentils along with their cooking water (if any). Mix well.
6. Add water/broth: Pour in 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Adjust consistency according to preference.
7. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
8. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and spices if needed.

Step 3: Serving

1. Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot: Serve the Bajra and Lentil Soup hot with a squeeze of lemon juice on top, accompanied by crusty bread or steamed rice.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetables: You can add chopped carrots, spinach, or any vegetables of your choice to enhance the nutritional content.
• Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.

Nutritional Benefits

Bajra is rich in fiber and essential minerals, while lentils provide protein and fiber, making this soup a wholesome and nourishing meal option.

Enjoy making and savoring this hearty Bajra and Lentil Soup. It’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds!