Dal Banjara Recipe: A Delicious North Indian Delight
Dal Banjara is a comforting, rich, and flavorful lentil dish that brings together an array of ingredients to create a heartwarming meal. This North Indian recipe is a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients like urad dal (black lentils), chana dal (split chickpeas), and an aromatic tempering of spices. Traditionally served with roti or rice, Dal Banjara makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a delightful taste that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black Urad Dal (split) | 3/4 cup |
| Chana Dal (split chickpeas) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Green Chili (sliced thin) | 1 |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1 inch |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 tsp |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | 5 sprigs |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Dry Red Chilies | 2 (broken into pieces) |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Cuisine
- Type: North Indian Cuisine
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cooking the Lentils:
Begin by placing both the black urad dal and chana dal into a pressure cooker. Add the grated ginger, sliced green chili, finely chopped tomato, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder. Add approximately 2 ½ cups of water and close the cooker. Cook for 2-3 whistles, then lower the flame and allow the dal to simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. After the pressure is released, open the cooker to check the consistency of the dal. If you desire a smoother texture, you can mash the dal slightly. -
-
Preparing the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small tempering pan, heat ghee over medium flame. Add cumin seeds and dry red chilies, breaking them into pieces. Allow the cumin seeds to splutter and the red chilies to release their flavor. Once the spices are sizzling and fragrant, pour this tempering into the cooked dal. -
Final Touches:
Stir the tempering into the dal and mix well. Garnish the Dal Banjara with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of freshness. -
Serving Suggestions:
Dal Banjara is best enjoyed with a side of lauki raita (bottle gourd yogurt), bhindi masala (spiced okra), and freshly made phulkas (roti). Serve it hot and enjoy this wholesome, high-protein vegetarian dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180-220 kcal |
| Protein | 12-15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 g |
| Fat | 5-7 g |
| Fiber | 7-9 g |
| Sodium | 300-350 mg |
Dal Banjara is not just a delicious treat; it’s a healthy, high-protein vegetarian dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Ideal for those looking for a nutritious yet comforting meal, it’s the perfect choice for a fulfilling lunch or dinner. The combination of black urad dal and chana dal makes it a powerhouse of protein and fiber, and the warm spices create a wonderfully aromatic experience.
So, whether you are looking to elevate your weekday lunch or enjoy a hearty dinner, Dal Banjara is sure to satisfy all your cravings. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite!
