Gram Dal (Chickpea Dal) Recipe ๐ฑ๐ฅฃ
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 53 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
Gram Dal, also known as Chickpea Dal, is a hearty and nutritious dish hailing from the heart of Indian cuisine. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of chickpeas with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a comforting and flavorsome meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a fan of Asian or Indian flavors, this stove-top delight promises a culinary journey that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpeas
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 cup ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida powder
- 1 inch gingerroot, grated
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup fresh coconut, grated
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup green peas
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
Instructions:
-
Soak Chickpeas: Begin by soaking the chickpeas for at least 2 hours to soften them up. Once soaked, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
-
Boil Chickpeas: In a large pot, bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked chickpeas, along with salt and turmeric. Let it boil vigorously for about 5 minutes, skimming off any foam that accumulates on the surface.
-
Simmer Chickpeas: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook the chickpeas until they are tender. This process may take around 1 hour, depending on the freshness of your chickpeas. Be patient, as properly cooked chickpeas are the foundation of a delicious dal.
-
Prepare Spice Base: In another large pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add cumin seeds, asafoetida powder, grated ginger, and a bay leaf. Allow the spices to sizzle and release their aromas for a few seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
-
Add Aromatics: Stir in the grated coconut, raisins, and green peas. Let them cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the peas to soften slightly.
-
Combine Ingredients: Once the chickpeas are tender, carefully transfer them into the pot with the spiced coconut mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the chickpeas are coated with the aromatic spices.
-
Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the sugar, paprika, and garam masala, adjusting the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Allow the dal to simmer gently for another 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to marry beautifully.
-
Serve: Once the dal is rich, thick, and bursting with flavor, it’s ready to serve! Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of coconut cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Gram Dal (Chickpea Dal) pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fluffy naan bread, or even a side of crispy papadums. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased as the star of your next Indian-inspired feast, this wholesome dish is sure to win hearts and satisfy cravings alike. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and savor every spoonful of this delightful culinary creation!