Soulful Maa Ki Dal: A Traditional Punjabi Comfort Dish

Maa Ki Dal Recipe: A Heartwarming Punjabi Delight

Maa Ki Dal is a soul-satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Punjabi cuisine, often prepared in homes across India with love and affection, especially by mothers. This recipe combines the rich flavors of black urad dal and rajma, delivering a nutritious meal that’s high in protein and perfect for family dinners. The slow-cooked lentils are complemented by a fragrant tempering, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

Cuisine

Punjabi

Course

Dinner

Diet

High Protein Vegetarian

Instructions

To begin making this heartwarming Maa Ki Dal, start by washing the black urad dal and rajma thoroughly. Rinse them 2 to 3 times to ensure they are clean. Next, soak the washed lentils and beans in water for at least 8 hours, but if you have time, soaking them for 24 hours will yield even better results.

Once the soaking time is complete, place a large pot on the stove and add about 5 cups of water along with a pinch of salt. Bring this water to a rolling boil. After the water has boiled, carefully add the soaked urad dal and rajma to the pot. Allow them to cook on medium heat until they become tender and soft; this process will take at least 2 to 3 hours. If you find yourself short on time, you can speed up the cooking process by using a pressure cooker, which will help the dal cook faster without compromising on taste.

After the lentils and beans are fully cooked and soft, it’s time to infuse them with flavor. Add the chopped tomatoes and grated ginger into the pot and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Following this, gently mash the dal and tomatoes together using a ladle, which will help to incorporate the flavors and create a creamy consistency. Let this mixture cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Now it’s time to prepare the tempering that will elevate this dish to the next level. In a separate small frying pan or tempering pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and sauté them until they turn a light brown, releasing their aromatic flavor into the oil. Be careful not to let them burn, as this can impart a bitter taste. Following the cumin seeds, add the dry red chili, coriander powder, and garam masala powder to the pan. Sauté these spices for about 1 minute, ensuring they blend together harmoniously without burning.

Once the tempering is ready, pour it over the cooked dal mixture in the pot. Stir well to combine all the flavors, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the dal to simmer gently for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to deepen the flavors, creating a dish that is rich and satisfying.

Finally, when the dal has reached the desired consistency and flavor, it is ready to be served. Maa Ki Dal pairs beautifully with various side dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside brinjal filling (baingan bharta), boondi raita, and soft phulkas (Indian flatbreads). This combination makes for a wholesome dinner that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Tips for Serving

1. Accompaniments: Besides brinjal filling and boondi raita, consider serving this dal with steamed rice or jeera rice for an additional carb option.
2. Garnish: For added freshness, garnish the dal with chopped cilantro before serving.
3. Consistency: Adjust the water quantity according to your preference for the dal’s thickness; add more for a soupy texture or less for a thicker consistency.

This Maa Ki Dal recipe is a testament to the love and care that goes into traditional Punjabi cooking, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings and special occasions. Enjoy this wholesome dish and the warmth it brings to your dinner table!