Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala Recipe – A Hearty, Protein-Packed North Indian Delight
Dal, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a dish loved by many across the country and beyond. It’s prepared in countless variations, each region adding its unique touch to make it special. Today, we’ll be diving into a delightful and nutritious version—Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala. This dish combines the earthy richness of masoor dal (red lentils) with the hearty texture of rajma (kidney beans), creating a comforting and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
This recipe is ideal for those looking to enjoy a High Protein Vegetarian meal. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala is a wonderful combination of ingredients that come together beautifully to make an irresistible dish.
Ingredients for Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Masoor dal (red lentils) | 1 cup |
Rajma (kidney beans) | 1/2 cup |
Onion | 1 large |
Tomatoes (pureed) | 2 medium |
Green chili | 1, chopped |
Coriander powder | 2 teaspoons |
Ginger | 1-inch piece, chopped thinly for garnish |
Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
Cinnamon | 1-inch stick |
Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
Ghee (or butter) | 2 teaspoons |
Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250 kcal (approx.) |
Protein | 15g |
Carbohydrates | 40g |
Fiber | 12g |
Fat | 8g |
Sodium | 300mg |
Potassium | 500mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions for Making Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala
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Soak the Ingredients: Begin by washing the masoor dal and rajma thoroughly under cold water. Soak them together in water overnight to ensure they soften and cook quickly the next day.
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Cook the Dal and Rajma: Once soaked, drain the water from the dal and rajma. Transfer them to a pressure cooker, add fresh water and salt to taste, and cook on medium heat for about 3 to 4 whistles. Once done, let the pressure release naturally.
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Prepare the Onion-Ginger Paste: While the dal and rajma are cooking, finely chop the onion and ginger. Grind them into a smooth paste using a mixer or food processor. Set it aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 teaspoons of ghee or butter in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the ghee melts, add the cinnamon stick and cumin seeds. Sauté them for 15 seconds until they release their fragrance.
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Cook the Onion-Ginger Paste: Add the prepared onion-ginger paste to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and aromatic. This will take about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Now, add the chopped green chili and pureed tomatoes to the pan. Let the tomato puree cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add the coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder, stirring well. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes to deepen the flavors.
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Combine with Cooked Dal and Rajma: Once the spice mixture has cooked down and the oil starts separating, add the cooked masoor dal and rajma into the pan. Adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. Stir well to combine the dal and rajma with the spiced mixture.
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Simmer and Final Adjustments: Let the dal and rajma simmer on low flame for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Taste and adjust the salt or seasoning as needed.
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Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped ginger for a burst of freshness. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala is a perfect accompaniment to Jeera Rice, Bhindi Masala, and Phulkas. For a wholesome meal, you can also enjoy it with a side of papad and a cool raita.
Final Thoughts
This Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala Recipe offers a deliciously creamy texture combined with a rich, spiced flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a regular weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this dish is bound to be a hit at the table. Plus, the high protein content from the lentils and kidney beans makes it an excellent choice for a nutritious, satisfying meal that’s both vegetarian and packed with goodness.
Enjoy your Masoor Dal and Rajma Masala with Jeera Rice, Bhindi Masala, and Phulkas for a truly delightful meal that nourishes both body and soul!
Note: Adjust the spice levels based on your preference, and don’t forget to add a dollop of yogurt on the side for a refreshing twist!