Amritsari Sookhi Dal Recipe: A Flavorful Punjabi Delight
Introduction:
Amritsari Sookhi Dal is a traditional and protein-packed dish from the heart of Punjab. This dry dal, made with black urad dal (husked and split black gram), is not only nutritious but also bursting with bold flavors. The combination of urad dal, tomatoes, onions, green chilies, and a generous amount of aromatic spices creates a dish that is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and folic acid. It is especially beneficial for women due to its high iron content. The dish is spiced up with green chilies, which are characteristic of Punjabi cuisine, making it a perfect accompaniment to your meal. With its dry consistency and the delicious crunch of sautéed onions and spices, Amritsari Sookhi Dal is an excellent side dish for a hearty dinner.
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Onions, thinly sliced lengthwise | 2 |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 |
| Green Chillies, finely chopped | 3 |
| Ginger, grated | 1/2 inch |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, finely chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| For Tempering: | |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| For Garnish: | |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Soak the Dal:
Begin by thoroughly washing the black urad dal under cold running water. Once washed, soak the dal in enough water for 30 minutes. This step softens the dal, ensuring it cooks faster and absorbs the flavors more effectively. -
Temper the Spices:
In a kadai (wok), heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ajwain (carom seeds), cumin seeds, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Let them sizzle for a few seconds to release their fragrant oils, which will form the base of the dal’s aromatic profile. -
Cook the Onions:
Add the finely sliced onions to the tempering. Stir them gently and cook until they turn soft and golden brown. This process can take about 5-7 minutes. The caramelized onions add depth and sweetness to the dish, balancing the spiciness of the green chilies. -
Add Green Chilies and Ginger:
Stir in the chopped green chilies and grated ginger. Allow them to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, infusing the oil with their flavors. The ginger adds a hint of warmth, while the green chilies contribute the bold spiciness typical of Punjabi cuisine. -
Add Tomatoes and Spice Powders:
Next, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan along with the salt, red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Cook the mixture over low flame, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and become soft and mushy. This step ensures that the tomatoes blend seamlessly with the spices, creating a thick, flavorful base. -
Add the Soaked Dal:
Once the tomatoes have softened, add the soaked urad dal, along with the water used for soaking. Give everything a good stir to mix the dal with the tomato-spice mixture. If needed, add a little more water to prevent the dal from sticking to the pan. -
Cook the Dal:
Cover the kadai and let the dal cook on low flame for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dal is tender and most of the water has evaporated. Stir occasionally to ensure the dal doesn’t stick to the bottom. The dal should have a dry consistency with a slight moisture left to keep it tender. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the dal is cooked and the water has evaporated, turn off the heat and garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander (dhania) leaves. This adds a burst of freshness to the dish, complementing the richness of the dal.
Serving Suggestions:
Amritsari Sookhi Dal pairs wonderfully with warm phulkas or parathas. You can also serve it alongside boondi raita for a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the dal. This dish makes for a hearty and nutritious side dish for a traditional Punjabi dinner.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Magnesium | 70 mg |
Conclusion:
Amritsari Sookhi Dal is a quintessential Punjabi dish that combines the richness of urad dal with the heat of green chilies and the warmth of aromatic spices. It is a wholesome and protein-packed side dish that can elevate any dinner spread. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a festive occasion, this flavorful dal is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
