Rajasthani Dal Recipe
Rajasthani Dal is a comforting, high-protein vegetarian dish that beautifully reflects the simplicity and bold flavors of Rajasthani cuisine. This dish combines the goodness of moong dal and chana dal, giving it a rich texture, while the tempering of ghee, green chillies, and cumin seeds infuses it with aromatic, tantalizing flavors. Perfectly paired with chapatis or rice, Rajasthani Dal brings warmth and satisfaction to your lunch table. This wholesome dal is made more flavorful with the use of traditional Indian spices such as turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a nutrient-dense vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana dal | 1/4 cup |
| Green moong dal | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic (grated) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Green chillies (sliced) | 2 |
| Ghee | As needed |
| Coriander leaves | For garnish, as required |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Instructions
-
Soak the Dal:
Begin by thoroughly washing the moong dal and chana dal under running water to remove any impurities. After washing, soak the dals in 3 cups of water for about 3 hours. This step helps in softening the dals and reducing the cooking time. -
Cook the Dal:
After soaking, drain the water from the dals and set them aside. In a pressure cooker, heat a little oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the grated ginger and garlic. Sauté them for about 20 seconds or until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with a lovely aroma. -
Add the Dals and Spices:
Now, add the soaked and drained dals into the pressure cooker. Pour in additional water (about 3 cups or as needed) to achieve your desired consistency. Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix everything well to combine all the ingredients. -
Pressure Cook the Dal:
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the dal on medium heat for about 3 whistles. After 3 whistles, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. The dals should be tender and soft by now. -
Prepare the Tempering:
While the dal is cooking, prepare the tempering (tadka). Heat ghee in a small tempering pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sliced green chillies. Let them cook for about 10 seconds or until the cumin seeds start to splutter and the green chillies become aromatic. -
Combine the Tempering with Dal:
Once the dal is cooked and the pressure has released, carefully open the pressure cooker. Pour the prepared tempering (ghee, cumin seeds, and green chillies) over the cooked dal. Stir everything together gently to allow the flavors to meld. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your Rajasthani Dal with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve the dal hot with phulkas (Indian flatbreads), bhindi masala (okra curry), and boondi raita (yogurt with fried gram flour balls) for a delicious and wholesome Rajasthani meal.
Tips for the Perfect Rajasthani Dal:
-
Adjust the Spice Levels:
You can adjust the number of green chillies according to your preference for heat. If you like it milder, reduce the number of chillies or remove the seeds before slicing. -
Consistency:
If you prefer a thicker dal, reduce the water slightly. For a more soupy consistency, feel free to add more water after pressure cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. -
Ghee:
Ghee is an essential ingredient in this recipe as it enhances the flavor and richness. However, if you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of ghee or use vegetable oil instead. -
Variation:
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) to the tempering or sauté some finely chopped onions along with the garlic and ginger.
Serve With:
- Phulkas: Soft and light whole wheat flatbreads that are the perfect accompaniment to dal.
- Bhindi Masala: A flavorful and mildly spiced okra stir-fry to balance the richness of the dal.
- Boondi Raita: A yogurt-based side dish with crispy fried gram flour balls that adds a cooling contrast to the spices in the dal.
Rajasthani Dal is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the rustic and rich culinary traditions of Rajasthan. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weekday meal or for a special occasion, this dal will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s not only nutritious but also a hearty, satisfying dish. So, gather your ingredients and experience the authentic taste of Rajasthan with this delightful dal recipe.
