Dal Fara Recipe: A Traditional Delight from Uttar Pradesh 🌾
Dal Fara is a traditional snack from the vibrant state of Uttar Pradesh, particularly loved in the cities of Lucknow and Kanpur. This delightful dish is made using whole wheat flour, filled with a savory chana dal paste and a blend of aromatic spices. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the flavorful filling makes it a perfect snack for any occasion, especially during the chilly winter evenings. Whether enjoyed with a cup of masala chai or paired with a tangy green chutney, Dal Fara is sure to transport your taste buds to the streets of Uttar Pradesh.
Cuisine: Uttar Pradesh
Course: Snack
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients for Dal Fara
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2-1/2 cups |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Green Chillies, chopped | 4 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion, chopped | 2 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, crushed | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Ginger, crushed | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | A few sprigs |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
35 minutes
Instructions for Dal Fara
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Prepare the Dough: Start by making a soft dough for the outer covering of the Dal Fara. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, kneading the mixture until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, cook the chana dal (Bengal gram) until tender, and then drain. Make a smooth paste with the cooked dal, adding salt, asafoetida, green chilies, and some chopped coriander leaves for added flavor.
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Shape the Fara: Divide the dough into small, equal portions. Roll each portion into a small ball, then flatten it into a disc shape (similar to a poori). Place a spoonful of the chana dal paste in the center and carefully fold and seal the dough around the filling, creating a small pouch.
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Cook the Fara: Bring 4 glasses of water to a boil in a large pot, adding 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of oil to the water. Gently drop the prepared Fara into the boiling water and cook them for about 15 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove them from the water and let them cool for a few minutes.
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Fry the Fara: Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a wok or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, chopped green chilies, crushed ginger, and onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent and aromatic. Add the cooked Dal Fara pieces, red chili powder, dry mango powder (amchur), and a pinch of salt. Fry the Fara until they turn golden and crispy.
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Serving: Serve your Dal Fara hot, accompanied by green chutney or masala chai for a complete and satisfying snack experience.
Allergen Information
- Wheat Flour: Contains gluten.
- Chana Dal: Legumes (Bengal Gram), a common allergen.
- Garlic: Common allergen for some individuals.
- Asafoetida (Hing): May cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
Dietary Preferences
- High Protein: Chana dal and whole wheat flour provide a rich source of plant-based protein, making Dal Fara an excellent snack for those looking to boost their protein intake.
- Vegetarian: A meat-free option perfect for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten: This recipe contains gluten, so it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Advice for Making the Best Dal Fara
- Adjust the Spice Level: Depending on your spice tolerance, you can increase or decrease the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
- Perfect the Filling: Make sure the dal paste is smooth but not too runny to avoid the filling leaking out when sealing the dough.
- Frying Tip: Frying Dal Fara until golden and crispy gives it the perfect texture. Don’t rush the frying process—take your time to achieve the perfect crunch.
- Storage: You can prepare Dal Fara ahead of time by boiling and cooling them. When ready to serve, simply fry them in the pan to reheat and crisp up.
Conclusion
Dal Fara is a beloved snack that encapsulates the rich culinary traditions of Uttar Pradesh. The combination of soft wheat flour dough with the flavorful, spiced chana dal filling creates a comforting, savory treat perfect for any time of the day. Whether enjoyed during a cozy winter evening with a cup of masala chai or as a hearty snack during the day, Dal Fara will surely delight your taste buds and offer a taste of Uttar Pradesh in your very own kitchen. Enjoy this high-protein vegetarian snack with your loved ones and share the warmth of traditional Indian flavors!
