Murgh Aur Masoor Dal Recipe: Bombay Style Chicken with Dal
In the vibrant tapestry of North Indian cuisine, the Murgh Aur Masoor Dal stands out as a delightful dish that brings together the heartiness of chicken and the wholesome goodness of lentils, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or a cozy gathering. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (with bone) | 300 grams |
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Onions (sliced) | 2 |
| Green Chilli (slit) | 1 |
| Ginger (chopped) | 1 inch |
| Garlic (chopped) | 5 cloves |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | High |
| Carbohydrates | Moderate |
| Fats | Moderate |
| Fiber | High |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Instructions
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Soaking the Dal: Begin your culinary adventure by washing and soaking the masoor dal in water for about 3 to 4 hours. This step is essential as it helps soften the lentils, ensuring they cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
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Cooking the Dal: In a pressure cooker, heat a drizzle of sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic, sautéing them until their raw aroma dissipates, creating a fragrant base for your dish. Next, introduce half of the sliced onions to the cooker, stirring until they turn translucent, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge.
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Adding Spices and Dal: Once the onions are perfectly cooked, sprinkle in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. Follow this by adding the soaked masoor dal along with 2 cups of water. Secure the lid on your pressure cooker and cook for about 5 whistles, or until the dal is tender and cooked through. Once the pressure has naturally released, carefully open the cooker and use a masher to mash the dal gently. Transfer the mashed dal to a bowl and set it aside.
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Cooking the Chicken: Using the same pressure cooker, heat a little more oil and add the remaining sliced onions. Sauté them until they achieve a lovely golden hue, indicating they are caramelized and ready to impart their deep flavor. Once done, add the previously mashed dal back into the cooker and stir well to combine. At this stage, incorporate the remaining spice powders—garam masala and red chilli powder—into the mixture.
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Final Assembly: It’s time to introduce the cleaned and washed chicken pieces into the cooker. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, then add about 1.5 cups of water to ensure everything cooks perfectly. Close the lid once again and pressure cook for about 2 whistles, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. After cooking, turn off the flame and allow the pressure to release naturally for optimal tenderness.
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Serving: Once ready, serve your Murgh Aur Masoor Dal piping hot, accompanied by fluffy steamed rice or soft phulka (Indian flatbread). For a complete meal experience, consider adding a side of refreshing Carrot, Radish & Peanut Salad with Lemon and a cooling Onion Raita (Pyaz Ka Raita) to balance the richness of the dal and chicken.
Culinary Notes
The Murgh Aur Masoor Dal recipe not only offers a burst of flavors but also embodies the essence of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. The combination of protein-rich chicken and nutritious lentils creates a satisfying meal that is both nourishing and delightful.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your palate, and experiment with additional ingredients like fresh coriander for garnish or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavors with every bite of this delightful dish!
This detailed approach to Murgh Aur Masoor Dal not only showcases the recipe but also provides insights into the cooking process, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks alike. With its delightful combination of ingredients and the promise of a flavorful meal, this dish is sure to find a cherished spot in your home.
