Maa Ki Dal Recipe – Punjabi Style Black Urad Dal Recipe

Maa Ki Dal is a beloved dish in Punjabi cuisine, renowned for its comforting richness and high protein content. This traditional recipe combines black urad dal (split black gram) with rajma (kidney beans) and spices, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. This dish is often served with rotis or rice, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for dinner gatherings or a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

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Servings

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Instructions

Step 1: Soaking the Dal and Rajma

Begin by washing the black urad dal and rajma thoroughly, rinsing them 2-3 times to remove impurities. Soak them together in water for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal texture; traditional methods suggest soaking for up to 24 hours, changing the water every 8 hours.

Step 2: Cooking the Dal

Once the dal and rajma have soaked sufficiently, take a heavy-bottomed pan or a slow cooker. Bring 5 cups of water, with a pinch of salt, to a boil. Add the pre-soaked dal and rajma, allowing them to simmer until tender. This slow cooking process can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours; however, if time is of the essence, you can use a pressure cooker to expedite the cooking.

Step 3: Adding Tomatoes and Ginger

After the dal is cooked and softened, incorporate the chopped tomatoes and ginger. Gently mash the dal and tomatoes together, taking care to maintain a slightly thick consistency without making the mixture overly mushy. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Preparing the Tempering

In a separate small pan, warm the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté them until they turn slightly brown. Introduce the dry red chillies, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Roast the mixture over low heat for about 1 minute, ensuring that the spices do not burn.

Step 5: Final Touches

Pour the prepared tempering over the cooked dal mixture. Bring it back to a gentle boil and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serving Suggestions

Serve the Maa Ki Dal hot, accompanied by Baingan Ka Bharta, Boondi Raita, and warm Phulkas for a delightful and comforting Punjabi meal.

Enjoy this delicious Maa Ki Dal as part of your dinner repertoire, and share the love of cooking with family and friends, making every meal a celebration!