Dal Banjara Recipe – A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Dal Banjara, also known as Langar Wali Dal, is a deliciously comforting and nutritious North Indian dish. This simple yet flavorful dal is made using a combination of black urad dal (split), chana dal, and aromatic spices like bay leaves, cinnamon, and garam masala powder. The lack of onion and garlic in the recipe makes it a perfect option for a satvik (pure) meal. It can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch. This high-protein vegetarian dish is often paired with roti, phulkas, or steamed rice, making it a versatile and wholesome meal.
Cuisine: North Indian Recipes
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black urad dal (split) | 3/4 cup |
| Chana dal | 1/4 cup |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Green chili (thinly sliced) | 1 |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Cinnamon | 1 inch |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Coriander leaves (chopped) | 5 sprigs |
| Ghee (for tempering) | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Dried red chillies (broken) | 2 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 10g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dal Base
To begin making the Dal Banjara, first take a pressure cooker and add the following ingredients:
- Black urad dal (split)
- Chana dal
- Grated ginger
- Thinly sliced green chili
- Finely chopped tomatoes
- Bay leaf
- Cinnamon
- Turmeric powder
- Garam masala powder
Add 2 1/2 cups of water to the cooker. Secure the lid and cook on high heat until the cooker whistles 2 to 3 times. Then, lower the heat and allow it to cook on a gentle simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Turn off the gas and let the pressure naturally release.
2. Check the Dal
Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the cooker. The dal should be soft and cooked to a creamy consistency. Stir the dal well to combine the ingredients.
3. Prepare the Tempering
In a small tempering pan, heat 1 tsp of ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add:
- Cumin seeds
- Broken dried red chilies
Sauté the tempering ingredients for about 30 seconds or until the cumin seeds crackle and release their aroma. Be cautious not to burn the spices.
4. Combine the Tempering with Dal
Pour the hot tempering directly over the cooked dal. Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors, allowing the spices to infuse into the dal.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dal with chopped coriander leaves for a fresh, vibrant flavor. Mix well.
Dal Banjara is now ready to be served! Pair it with Lauki Raita (bottle gourd yogurt), Bhindi Masala (spicy okra), and freshly made Phulkas (Indian flatbreads) for a wholesome and satisfying lunch.
Tips for the Perfect Dal Banjara:
- Consistency: Dal Banjara is typically served with a slightly thick consistency, but you can adjust the amount of water to make it soupier if preferred.
- Vegetarian Variation: You can skip the ghee for a completely vegan version and use coconut oil or olive oil instead for tempering.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies and dried red chilies based on your spice tolerance.
- Pressure Cooker Alternative: If you do not have a pressure cooker, you can cook the dal in a regular pot, but this may take longer (about 45-60 minutes) for the dal to soften.
Why You’ll Love Dal Banjara
Dal Banjara is a protein-packed, aromatic lentil dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The blend of black urad dal and chana dal provides a rich source of plant-based protein, making it a filling and healthy option for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With its perfect balance of earthy flavors from the spices and a creamy texture, Dal Banjara is sure to become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.
Conclusion:
Dal Banjara is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together simplicity, taste, and nutrition in one pot. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a special occasion, this North Indian classic offers a wholesome experience for everyone to enjoy. Serve it with your favorite accompaniments, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of Indian kitchens!
Looking for more high-protein vegetarian recipes? Check out other North Indian recipes like Palak Paneer, Aloo Gobi, or Chole Masala right here on Love with Recipes!
