Authentic Dal Banjara Recipe – Flavorful North Indian Lentil Dish

Dal Banjara – A Flavorful North Indian Delight

Dal Banjara, also known as Langar Dal, is a traditional North Indian dish that is both simple and nourishing. Made with a blend of black urad dal (split) and chana dal, this dish is packed with protein and full of aromatic flavors. With the richness of ghee and a tempering of cumin seeds and dried red chillies, Dal Banjara offers a unique taste without the need for garlic or onions. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a satvik meal or a hearty vegetarian dish.

Dal Banjara Recipe

Course: Lunch
Cuisine: North Indian
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Serves: 4

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dal Mixture:
   Begin by rinsing the black urad dal (split) and chana dal thoroughly under running water. Place both dals in a pressure cooker. Add grated ginger, chopped green chilies, and finely chopped tomato to the cooker.

2. Add Spices & Water:
   Toss in the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder. Pour in 2 and a half cups of water to the cooker, ensuring the ingredients are well submerged. Give everything a gentle stir.

3. Cook the Dal:
   Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the dal on medium heat for about 2 to 3 whistles. Once the whistles subside, reduce the flame and let the dal simmer for another 10 minutes. This slow simmer helps develop a deeper flavor.

4. Release Pressure:
   Turn off the gas and allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid and give the dal a good stir. The dal should be soft and thick.

5. Prepare the Tempering:
   In a small pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and broken dried red chillies. Let them sizzle for about 15 seconds until fragrant.

6. Combine Tempering with Dal:
   Pour the hot tempering mixture directly into the cooked dal. Stir it in gently, allowing the rich flavors to infuse into the dal.

7. Garnish & Serve:
   Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped coriander leaves over the dal for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve the Dal Banjara hot with a side of Tomato Cucumber Onion Raita and Bhakri, or your favorite bread or rice for a satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Dal Banjara pairs perfectly with simple sides like Bhakri, a traditional flatbread, or Tomato Cucumber Onion Raita for a refreshing balance of flavors. You can also enjoy it with steamed rice for a wholesome and comforting meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Dal Banjara is a perfect dish for those seeking a hearty, comforting, and nutritious meal. With its balanced flavors and satvik preparation, it’s an ideal option for any lunch or special occasion. Enjoy this high-protein vegetarian dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!