Bihari Dal Pitha Recipe (Traditional Bihari Delicacy)
Bihari Dal Pitha is a beloved delicacy from the heart of Bihari cuisine. These steamed rice flour dumplings, stuffed with a flavorful and spicy lentil filling, are a nutritious, gluten-free, and vegan snack option. Perfectly spiced and filled with the goodness of lentils, these Pithas are a delightful treat for all age groups and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. The combination of fresh rice dough and masala dal filling makes this dish not only filling but also rich in protein. Traditionally enjoyed with chutneys like mint, tomato, or coriander chutney, Bihari Dal Pitha offers a delicious yet guilt-free alternative to fried snacks.
Whether it’s a party snack or a light dinner option, Bihari Dal Pitha can replace the fried starters often served during gatherings. Its subtle spice and satisfying texture make it a hit with anyone who loves a flavorful, wholesome bite. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delicious Bihari specialty!
Ingredients
For Making Rice Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (soaked for 4 hours) | 1 cup |
| OR Rice Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Water (for cooking) | As needed |
For Dal Stuffing (to be ground):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal, soaked for 3 hours) | 3/4 cup |
| Green Chillies (chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (peeled and chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic (cloves) | 3 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) โ finely chopped (for garnish) | As needed |
| Oil (for greasing) | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 60 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Rice Dough:
- If you’re using soaked rice: Begin by grinding the soaked rice into a smooth dough-like consistency. You can use a food processor or a traditional grinding stone to do this.
- If you’re using rice flour: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of oil. Gradually add water and knead into a soft dough. Make sure the dough isn’t too sticky or too dry.
- Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest while you prepare the dal stuffing.
-
Prepare the Dal Stuffing:
- In a pan, heat 1 teaspoon of oil. Add cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and ajwain (carom seeds). Allow them to splutter for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped ginger, garlic, and green chillies. Sautรฉ them for a minute or two until they release their aroma.
- Add the soaked chana dal to the pan and stir to combine with the spices. Cook for a few minutes until the dal is well mixed with the spices.
- Next, grind this mixture into a coarse paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
- After grinding, garnish the mixture with finely chopped coriander leaves for a burst of fresh flavor.
-
Assemble the Pithas:
- Take a small portion of the rice dough and roll it into a ball, then flatten it into a small disc (about 2 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of the dal filling in the center of the disc. Gently fold the edges over the filling to seal it, shaping it into a small dumpling. Repeat this process for the remaining dough and filling.
-
Steam the Pithas:
- Grease a steaming plate with a little oil to prevent the pithas from sticking.
- Arrange the dumplings on the plate and steam them for about 30-40 minutes. You can use a traditional steamer or a pressure cooker without the weight. Make sure to check occasionally to ensure they are steaming evenly.
- Once the pithas are cooked, they will have a firm texture and will be easily separated from the plate.
-
Serve:
- Garnish with extra chopped coriander leaves for a fresh touch.
- Serve the Bihari Dal Pithas hot with mint chutney, tomato chutney, or a tangy hari dhaniya chutney on the side.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Lentils (Chana Dal)
- May contain traces of: Gluten (if using rice flour, ensure it is gluten-free if needed)
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (if using rice flour or freshly ground rice)
Dietary Preference:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is completely plant-based, with no dairy or meat ingredients.
- Vegan: All ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe can be made gluten-free using freshly ground rice or certified gluten-free rice flour.
Advice:
- For a fluffier texture: If you find the rice dough too dense, you can add a little bit of warm water as you knead to ensure a smoother consistency.
- Customization: You can adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the number of green chillies or even adding some roasted cumin powder for an extra kick.
- Steaming: If you donโt have a traditional steamer, you can easily use a pressure cooker (without the weight) or a large pot with a steaming rack to steam the pithas.
- Serving Tip: These steamed dumplings pair beautifully with a variety of chutneys. You can also serve them with a side of yogurt or a tangy tamarind sauce for an added zing.
Conclusion:
Bihari Dal Pitha is an authentic and wholesome snack that showcases the flavors and richness of traditional Bihari cuisine. Whether youโre hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious, guilt-free snack, these steamed dumplings are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, they provide a perfect alternative to fried snacks and are an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans alike. Easy to prepare and full of taste, Bihari Dal Pithas are a must-try for anyone looking to explore regional Indian flavors. Enjoy the warmth and spiciness of these pithas, and let their delightful texture take you on a journey to Bihar with every bite!
