Bhatt Ki Dal (Uttarakhand Pahadi Dal) Recipe
Description:
Bhatt Ki Dal is a traditional Pahadi dish from the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, often prepared in every household as a comforting, everyday meal. This simple yet flavorful dal is made using black beans, also known as ‘Bhatt’ in local parlance, and is incredibly easy to prepare. With a cooking time of just 20 minutes, this dish makes a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner spread. The vibrant spices and the aromatic tadka make it a delightful vegetarian dish that can be served with a side of Mughlai Bhindi and Phulkas.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black beans (soaked overnight) | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 4 cloves |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 2 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 2 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Ghee | As required |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Instructions:
-
Soak the Beans:
Begin by soaking the black beans (Bhatt) in plenty of water overnight to ensure they cook quickly and evenly the next day. -
Roast the Flour:
In a pan, heat some ghee as required. Add wheat flour to it and roast it until it turns light brown. Once done, turn off the heat and set it aside for later. -
Cooking the Dal:
In a pressure cooker, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle, releasing their fragrant aroma. -
Saute the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onions and garlic to the cooker. Sautรฉ them until the onions turn soft and golden. -
Add the Spices and Beans:
Now, add the soaked black beans to the cooker along with water, adjusting it to your preferred consistency. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Pressure Cook:
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the dal for 5 to 8 whistles, or for about 30 minutes, depending on the beans’ tenderness. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the cooker. -
Add Roasted Flour:
Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and add the roasted flour to the dal. Mix well and add some water to achieve the desired consistency. Cook this mixture on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes to let the flavors meld together. -
Final Touch:
Turn off the gas, and your delicious Bhatt Ki Dal is ready. Transfer it to a serving bowl.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this hearty and flavorful Bhatt Ki Dal with Mughlai Bhindi and soft Phulkas for a fulfilling lunch experience. The combination of spices and textures makes for a perfect, comforting meal.
Enjoy this easy-to-make, nutrient-rich, and absolutely delicious Uttarakhand Pahadi dal that brings a taste of the Himalayas to your table!
