Mango Kadhi (Fajeto) & Moong Ki Chooti Dal – A Wholesome Gujarati Delight
If you think you’ve experienced all that mango season has to offer with aamras and mango shakes, think again. Fajeto, also known as Mango Kadhi, and Moong Ki Chooti Dal are hidden gems of traditional Gujarati cuisine that deserve a place on your summer menu. These two comforting dishes are a celebration of flavour, resourcefulness, and nutrition—made from humble ingredients but rich in taste and heritage.
The Story Behind Fajeto – Mango Kadhi with a Purpose
Fajeto is not just another mango dish; it’s a clever way to use every last bit of the fruit. Instead of discarding the mango skins and seeds after making aamras, they are washed and squeezed to extract any leftover pulp. This tangy-sweet pulp becomes the base of a kadhi made with curd, besan (gram flour), and spices.
This dish reflects the Gujarati value of zero-waste cooking—nothing goes to waste when it can be transformed into something delicious. The result is a soothing, mildly spiced curry that pairs beautifully with rice and dry dals like Moong Ki Chooti Dal.
Why Fajeto Is Great for You ?
Fajeto is more than just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients. Mango pulp is rich in Vitamin C and beta-carotene, which boost skin health and immunity. Curd adds probiotics that support gut health, while besan provides plant-based protein and fiber. The addition of spices like turmeric, hing (asafoetida), and curry leaves offers anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
The small piece of jaggery not only balances the tanginess of curd and mango but also adds a natural iron source to your meal.
The Simplicity of Moong Ki Chooti Dal
While Fajeto is the star of the show, Moong Ki Chooti Dal is its perfect supporting act. Made with soaked moong dal, basic spices, and a flavorful tadka, this dish is a protein-rich, easy-to-digest accompaniment.
The name ‘chooti dal’ simply means a dry-style dal preparation, which allows it to contrast perfectly with the runny, kadhi-style texture of Fajeto. This combination is light on the stomach yet highly satisfying, especially during the warmer months.
Moong Dal – The Ultimate Summer Protein
Moong dal is one of the healthiest lentils available. It’s light, easy to digest, and full of plant-based protein and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, supports muscle repair, and keeps you fuller for longer—making it ideal for a balanced meal.
In this recipe, the dal is boiled until soft and then cooked dry with a tempering of hing and red chilli powder in oil. This enhances its taste while keeping the ingredients minimal and clean.
The Process in Brief
To prepare Fajeto, begin by extracting mango pulp from leftover skins and seeds. Mix it with curd, besan, a little aamras (if available), and water to get the right consistency. In a separate pan, prepare a tempering with mustard seeds, cumin, methi dana, hing, turmeric, red chilli powder, and curry leaves. Add the mango-curd mixture, a piece of jaggery, and cook it until it boils gently.
For Moong Ki Chooti Dal, boil soaked moong dal with water, salt, and turmeric. Once cooked, remove excess water, prepare a tadka with hing and chilli powder in oil, and mix it into the dal. Cook until dry and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions and Final Touch
Serve this delicious Gujarati duo with steamed rice, jeera rice, or even phulkas. A spoon of ghee on top, some roasted papad on the side, and you’ve got yourself a soul-satisfying meal.
This combination is not just about taste—it’s also about comfort, nutrition, and sustainability. Whether you’re new to Gujarati cuisine or revisiting childhood memories, Fajeto and Moong Ki Chooti Dal make for a wholesome summer lunch.
Final Thoughts
Fajeto and Chooti Dal may sound humble, but together they pack a punch of flavour, heritage, and health. This duo proves that simple ingredients, when used with care and creativity, can result in dishes that are both comforting and extraordinary.
This summer, give aamras a flavorful partner by trying out Mango Kadhi (Fajeto) and pair it with protein-rich Moong Ki Chooti Dal for a balanced, satisfying meal that celebrates seasonal produce and Indian culinary wisdom.
