Kumani Bhatt Ki Dal – A Traditional Kumaoni Black Bean Delight
Bhatt Ki Dal, a cherished dish from the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a true testament to the simplicity and wholesome goodness of Pahari cuisine. The Kumaoni people, living in the high-altitude, picturesque Himalayan ranges, are known for their affinity towards food that is not only delicious but also healthy and perfect for their tough environment. This Dal, made from black beans, is cooked with a medley of aromatic spices and ghee, creating a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with Indian flatbreads like phulkas and sabzis.
Cuisine: North Indian (Kumaoni)
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black beans | 1 cup (soaked overnight) |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole wheat flour | 1/4 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garam masala powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
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Soak the Black Beans: Begin by soaking the black beans overnight in water. This helps in softening the beans and reduces cooking time. Drain the beans before using them.
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Roast the Whole Wheat Flour: Heat a kadai (wok) over medium heat and add a tablespoon of ghee. Once the ghee starts to melt, add the whole wheat flour. Roast the flour, stirring continuously, until it turns light brown and releases a pleasant aroma. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside for later use.
-
Prepare the Tempering: In a pressure cooker, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and allow them to crackle, which releases their flavors into the oil. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent. Once the onions turn light brown, it’s time to move on to the next step.
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Cook the Dal: Add the soaked black beans to the cooker along with enough water to cover them by at least two inches. To this, add the spice powders – turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder. Season with salt according to your taste preferences. Mix everything together thoroughly. If the water seems insufficient, feel free to add a little more.
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Pressure Cook: Close the pressure cooker with its lid and cook the dal for about 5 to 8 whistles, approximately 30 minutes. Once the dal is cooked through, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Finish the Dal: Once the pressure has released, open the cooker. Add the roasted wheat flour to the dal and stir well to combine. Keep stirring to ensure the flour is evenly mixed into the dal. If the dal appears too thick, add a bit of water to achieve your desired consistency. Keep stirring until the dal thickens to a creamy texture.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Check the salt and spice levels. If needed, adjust to suit your taste. You can also add a touch of ghee for added richness and flavor.
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Serve: Transfer the Kumani Bhatt Ki Dal to a serving bowl. Serve it hot with Phulka (Indian flatbread) and a side of Aloo Gobi Ki Sabzi (spiced potato and cauliflower curry) for a satisfying and wholesome Kumaoni-inspired lunch or dinner.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your preference for heat. You can also add a green chili for an extra kick.
- Beans: While black beans are traditionally used, you can also experiment with other types of beans, such as kidney beans or chickpeas, if you prefer.
- Serving Suggestions: This dal pairs wonderfully with plain rice, chapati, or steamed vegetables.
- Ghee: Ghee is an essential part of this recipe, giving the dal its rich and aromatic flavor. If you prefer, you can reduce the ghee, but do keep at least a teaspoon for authentic taste.
Kumani Bhatt Ki Dal, with its simple ingredients and rich flavors, brings the essence of the Himalayan region to your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a festive meal, this dal is sure to warm your heart and soul. Enjoy!
