Bengali Cholar Dal Recipe: A Heartwarming Taste of Bengali Cuisine
Bengali Cholar Dal, or Bengal Gram Dal, is a traditional and beloved dish that showcases the delightful flavors of Bengal. Known for its rich and creamy texture, this dish is packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner. The combination of spices, fresh coconut, and aromatic ingredients creates a unique taste that is sure to satisfy your palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 cup |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/2 cup, cut into small bits |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, slit into halves lengthwise |
| Ginger | 1 inch, peeled and grated |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 230 |
| Protein | Approx. 10g |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | Approx. 8g |
| Fat | Approx. 8g |
| Saturated Fat | Approx. 4g |
| Sodium | Variable, to taste |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Servings
| Servings |
|---|
| 3 |
Course
| Type |
|---|
| Lunch |
Cuisine
| Style |
|---|
| Bengali Recipes |
Diet
| Type |
|---|
| High Protein Vegetarian |
Instructions
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Prepare the Chana Dal: Begin by thoroughly washing the chana dal under running water. After rinsing, soak it in water for about one hour. This step not only softens the dal but also helps in cooking it evenly.
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-
Cook the Dal: In a pressure cooker, add the soaked chana dal along with 2 1/2 cups of fresh water, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Secure the lid and cook for about 8 whistles or approximately 30 minutes until the dal is tender and cooked through. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Once it’s safe to open, set the cooked dal aside.
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Prepare the Coconut: In a pan, heat the mustard oil over medium heat. Add the coconut pieces and sauté them until they turn a golden brown. Be careful not to burn them. Once browned, turn off the heat and transfer the fried coconut to a bowl. Set aside until needed.
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Sauté the Spices: In the same pan, add a tablespoon of mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Then, add the cumin seeds, dry red chilies, cloves, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, slit green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté this aromatic mixture for just a few seconds to release the essential oils and flavors.
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Combine and Boil: Carefully add the cooked dal along with the roasted coconut into the pan with the spices. Stir everything together gently. Allow the mixture to boil briskly for three to four minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Serve: Transfer the Bengali Cholar Dal to a serving bowl. For a delightful presentation, garnish with a few additional roasted coconut pieces on top. Serve the warm dal hot with steamed rice and Begun Bhaja (Batter-Fried Eggplant) for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enjoy Your Meal
Bengali Cholar Dal is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with flavors and traditions that capture the essence of Bengali cooking. Its high protein content makes it a nutritious choice for vegetarian diets, while the combination of spices and coconut creates a rich, fragrant dish that will leave you and your family craving more. Enjoy this comforting meal as part of your weekend lunch or dinner, and share the love of cooking with those around you. Bon appétit!
