Growing up crunchy lentils were a part of the savory snacks at home. Roasted whole mung beans that were deep fried were perfect. So were crispy peas and fried moong dal. Makes my mouth water.

I love the simple dish of steamed scallops with mung bean vermicelli, usually found in Cantonese restaurants that specialise in seafood. Often, though, they use far too much pre-minced garlic ...