Pahari Style Phanu Recipe – A Creamy, Flavorful Mixed Dal Dish
Introduction:
Pahari Style Phanu is a traditional dish from the beautiful hills of North Kumaon, Uttarakhand. This delightful recipe combines two different dals β Arhar dal (Toor dal) and White Urad dal β into a creamy, comforting dish with subtle, aromatic flavors. The addition of whole spices and a simple mustard oil tadka elevates the taste, making this dish a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein and rich in flavors, Pahari Style Phanu is both nutritious and satisfying.
This dish can be served with phulka (Indian flatbread), Aloo Baingan Ki Sabzi, and Mooli Raita for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re looking for a dish to enjoy with family or impress your guests, Pahari Style Phanu is sure to please.
Ingredients for Pahari Style Phanu
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup, soaked in water for 2 hours |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup, soaked in water for 2 hours |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| For the Tadka: | |
| Ginger | 1/2 inch piece, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, finely chopped |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit |
| Mustard Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Protein | 7-9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Fat | 3-5 grams |
| Fiber | 6 grams |
| Sodium | 300-350 mg |
Note: The nutritional values are approximations and may vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used.
Preparation Time: 120 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4-5 servings
Instructions for Making Pahari Style Phanu
-
Soak the Dals:
Start by soaking the Arhar dal (Toor dal) and White Urad dal in water for about 2 hours. This step is crucial as it ensures the dals cook evenly and become tender. -
Cook the Dal:
After soaking, drain the water and add the dals to a pressure cooker. To the dal, add the chopped tomatoes, finely chopped ginger, garlic, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt.
Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the dal for about 6 whistles on medium heat. Allow the pressure to release naturally, and then carefully open the lid. -
Adjust Consistency:
Once the dal is cooked, stir it to break up any lumps and to get a creamy, smooth consistency. If the dal is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency to your preference. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for added flavor. Taste and adjust the salt as needed. -
Make the Tadka:
To make the tadka, heat mustard oil in a small frying pan or tadka pan. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add the slit green chili, finely chopped ginger, and garlic. Fry for a few seconds until the garlic turns golden brown and releases its aroma. -
Combine Tadka with Dal:
Pour the hot tadka over the cooked dal. Stir the dal well to incorporate the spices and flavors from the tadka. This final step adds a burst of flavor to the creamy dal. -
Serve:
Serve the Pahari Style Phanu hot with phulka, Aloo Baingan Ki Sabzi, and a refreshing Mooli Raita on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian flatbreads or rice.
Tips for Best Results:
- Dal Consistency: The consistency of the dal can be adjusted to your liking. Some prefer it thicker while others like it more soupy. Add water gradually to achieve the desired texture.
- Tadka Variations: For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add a small piece of cinnamon or a few cloves to the tadka.
- Soaking the Dal: Soaking the dal is an important step to reduce cooking time and make the dals softer and creamier.
Why You’ll Love Pahari Style Phanu:
- Rich in Protein: This recipe combines two types of dals, making it a rich source of plant-based protein.
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and spices creates a warm, earthy flavor profile.
- Simple Yet Delicious: With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is a breeze to make, yet packed with bold flavors that reflect the essence of Kumaoni cuisine.
- Comforting and Hearty: The creamy texture and aromatic tadka make this dal a perfect comfort food, ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Variations You Can Try:
- Add Vegetables: You can incorporate diced vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes into the dal while cooking to make it more hearty and nutritious.
- Change the Tadka: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using ghee instead of mustard oil, or add a touch of garam masala to the tadka for extra warmth.
- Serving Options: Pahari Style Phanu pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Pahari Style Phanu is a hearty, flavorful mixed dal recipe from the picturesque region of Uttarakhand. The combination of Arhar dal and White Urad dal results in a creamy, satisfying dish thatβs perfect for a protein-packed vegetarian meal. With a simple yet aromatic tadka, this dish is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Serve it alongside traditional Indian sides like phulka and Aloo Baingan Ki Sabzi for a wholesome lunch experience. Enjoy this delightful taste of the mountains!
