Masoor Dal Makhni Recipe: A Delightful North Indian Comfort Food
Masoor Dal Makhni, a beloved dish from North Indian cuisine, is a hearty and flavorful lentil curry that promises to delight your taste buds with its creamy texture and rich spices. A perfect choice for lunch, this high-protein vegetarian dish combines the goodness of whole masoor dal (red lentils) with the richness of ghee and fresh cream, creating a comforting and fulfilling meal. Whether served with fragrant rice or soft parathas, Masoor Dal Makhni is sure to be a crowd-pleaser in any home.
This recipe not only captures the essence of traditional Indian flavors but also provides a quick and easy method for preparing this delicious dal, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner or festive gatherings. Let’s dive into the preparation process and get cooking!
Ingredients for Masoor Dal Makhni
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (cloves) | 6 cloves |
| Ginger (2-inch piece) | 1 |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 small stick |
| Garam Masala Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Cream | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for family meals or a small gathering.
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: North Indian
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Masoor Dal Makhni
Step 1: Wash and Soak the Masoor Dal
Begin by thoroughly washing the whole masoor dal under running tap water. Continue washing until the water runs clear, ensuring that any impurities are removed. Once washed, soak the dal in lukewarm water for about 30 minutes to soften and reduce cooking time.
Step 2: Sauté Whole Spices
In a pressure cooker, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the whole spices: cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. Let the spices sizzle and release their aroma for about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
Add the finely chopped onion to the pressure cooker. Sauté the onion until it turns golden brown and soft. This caramelization adds depth and sweetness to the dal.
Step 4: Add Ginger and Garlic
Crush the garlic cloves and ginger together using a mortar and pestle. Add the crushed mixture to the cooker and sauté until the raw smell of ginger and garlic dissipates. This will take about 2-3 minutes, so keep stirring to avoid burning.
Step 5: Cook the Tomatoes and Spices
Add the chopped tomato to the pressure cooker, followed by the dry spices: coriander powder, red chilli powder, and garam masala. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, and the oil (or ghee) begins to separate from the masala. This step helps infuse the spices into the sauce, creating a fragrant base for the dal.
Step 6: Pressure Cook the Dal
Once the tomatoes are soft and the masala is well-cooked, add the soaked masoor dal to the pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the dal and stir everything together. Season with salt to taste.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker, set the heat to low, and cook the dal for about 4-5 whistles. After the cooking time, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to subside naturally.
Step 7: Final Touch – Add Fresh Cream
Once the pressure cooker lid is safely opened, check the consistency of the dal. It should be thick and creamy, but if it’s too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
To make the dal extra rich, stir in fresh cream. This will lend the dal a velvety texture and a luxurious taste.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Masoor Dal Makhni is now ready to be served. This delicious, creamy dal pairs wonderfully with steaming rice or soft, fluffy parathas. You can also serve it with a side of fresh green salad for a complete, wholesome meal.
Tips for the Perfect Masoor Dal Makhni
-
Soaking the Dal: Soaking the dal before cooking reduces the cooking time and helps in better absorption of flavors. For a quicker option, you can skip the soaking, but the dal may take a bit longer to cook.
-
Spices: Adjust the quantity of red chili powder and garam masala to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier dal, increase the amount of red chili powder.
-
Creaminess: For a creamier texture, you can add extra fresh cream or substitute with a dollop of yogurt if desired.
-
Slow Cooking Option: If you have time, let the dal simmer on low heat for a longer period after pressure cooking. This allows the flavors to develop even more deeply.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient quantities and specific brands used.)
Conclusion
Masoor Dal Makhni is a versatile and delightful dish, bringing warmth and richness to any meal. The combination of whole masoor dal, aromatic spices, and cream creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair it with rice or flatbreads like parathas for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight and flavorful enough to impress your guests. Enjoy your homemade Masoor Dal Makhni, and share the joy of traditional Indian cuisine with your loved ones!
