How to Make White Chana Sundal (Traditional & Healthy Version)
White Chana Sundal is a classic South Indian dish, celebrated for its wholesome goodness and simplicity. Traditionally prepared during Navaratri and other festive occasions, Sundal is made using boiled white chana (kabuli chana or chickpeas) tossed with coconut, mustard seeds, and aromatic curry leaves. This protein-rich snack is not only a staple during festivals but also a popular lunchbox item across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The dish offers a delightful blend of nutty chickpeas, fresh coconut, and a subtle spice tempering, making it both nutritious and flavorful. Sundal is a perfect example of how South Indian cuisine uses minimal ingredients to create comforting and healthy meals. Its light seasoning keeps the dish low in calories, making it ideal for calorie-conscious individuals. The addition of grated coconut and mustard seeds gives Sundal a unique taste, while curry leaves and green chilies add traditional Indian flavors. Whether enjoyed as a mid-day snack, a side for lunch, or during religious gatherings, White Chana Sundal embodies both the cultural and nutritional richness of Indian food.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash and soak white chana (kabuli chana) overnight in enough water
Wash and soak white chana (kabuli chana) overnight in enough water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Step 2 · Pressure cook the soaked chana with a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistle...
Pressure cook the soaked chana with a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistles until soft but not mushy. Drain excess water.
Step 3 · Heat oil in a kadhai (pan)
Heat oil in a kadhai (pan). Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal, hing, and sauté until urad dal turns golden.
Step 4 · Add chopped green chilies and curry leaves
Add chopped green chilies and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute to release their aroma.
Step 5 · Add the boiled chana to the pan
Add the boiled chana to the pan. Toss well to coat with the tempering. Cook for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
Step 6 · Add grated coconut and salt
Add grated coconut and salt. Mix thoroughly and cook for another minute. Turn off the heat.
Step 7 · Serve hot or warm as a lunch side or snack
Serve hot or warm as a lunch side or snack. Garnish with extra curry leaves if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Sundal recipe avoids deep frying and uses minimal oil, making it lower in calories and fat. With high protein content from chana and dietary fiber, it supports satiety and weight management. Grated coconut adds healthy fats without excess calories. Sundal is suitable for those seeking a light, wholesome meal, perfect for lunch or as a nutritious snack for calorie-conscious eaters.
A note on tradition
White Chana Sundal is an integral part of Navaratri celebrations in Tamil Nadu, where it is offered as prasadam in temples and homes. It also features in other South Indian festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Varalakshmi Vratam. Sundal is commonly distributed during religious gatherings, symbolizing purity and wholesomeness. Its simplicity and nutritional value make it a favorite among all age groups, reflecting South India's rich tradition of healthy festival foods.