Cabbage Chana Dal Sabzi – A Wholesome North Indian Side Dish
Cabbage Chana Dal Sabzi, also known as Gobi Chana Dal, is a flavorful and nutritious North Indian recipe that combines the goodness of cabbage and chana dal (Bengal gram) in a spicy tempering. This diabetic-friendly side dish is a great option to accompany your meals, bringing in the earthy flavor of chana dal with the crunch of cabbage. The addition of aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala makes this dish not only healthy but also full of flavor.
Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this Cabbage Chana Dal Sabzi can be served with Bajre Ki Roti, Yellow Pumpkin Dal, or Steamed Brown Rice for a balanced and wholesome Indian meal. Letβs walk through this simple recipe step by step, so you can enjoy it right at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi/ Muttaikose) | 3 cups (shredded) |
| Green Chilli | 2 (slit) |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup (washed and soaked) |
| Curry Leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Protein | ~7g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Fiber | ~6g |
| Sodium | ~250mg |
| Sugar | ~3g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chana Dal
To start, wash the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in hot water for about an hour. This softens the dal and reduces cooking time. While the dal is soaking, you can move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Temper the Spices
In a large skillet or pan, heat the sunflower oil on medium flame. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Allow them to sizzle and pop for about 30 seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Add Curry Leaves & Asafoetida
Add the curry leaves and asafoetida (hing) to the skillet. The aroma of these spices will immediately fill the kitchen, adding depth to the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Chana Dal
Next, drain the soaked chana dal and add it to the skillet. Pour in a little water to help the dal cook. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the dal is cooking evenly and doesnβt stick to the pan. The dal should soften but still retain a bite.
Step 5: Spice It Up
Once the chana dal is cooked, open the lid and add the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, cumin powder, and garam masala powder to the skillet. Stir well to coat the dal with the spices, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Add the Cabbage
Now, add the shredded cabbage along with the slit green chilies. Mix it gently with the dal and cover the skillet again. Allow the cabbage to cook for about 5 minutes. You want the cabbage to retain a slight crunch while still absorbing the spices and flavors from the dal. If you prefer softer cabbage, let it cook for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the cabbage reaches your desired level of tenderness, taste and adjust the salt and seasoning if needed. The dish should have a lovely balance of spices, and the cabbage should complement the chana dal beautifully.
Step 8: Serve
Transfer the hot Cabbage Chana Dal Sabzi to a serving bowl. Serve it immediately while itβs warm, and enjoy it with Bajre Ki Roti, Yellow Pumpkin Dal, or Steamed Brown Rice for a complete and nutritious meal.
Tips & Variations
- Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of green chilies and Kashmiri red chili powder based on your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and omit the green chilies.
- Cabbage Variations: If you prefer, you can replace cabbage with other leafy greens like spinach or kale, though cabbage gives a unique texture that pairs beautifully with chana dal.
- For Extra Protein: You can add some cooked tofu or paneer to the dish for added protein, making it a more filling option, especially for vegetarians.
Conclusion
This Cabbage Chana Dal Sabzi is a delightful, diabetic-friendly side dish that combines the earthy taste of chana dal with the freshness of cabbage. Itβs easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to any North Indian meal. The spices used in this dish bring warmth and depth, while the cabbage retains its crunch and provides a healthy, low-calorie addition to your diet.
Enjoy this dish as a side with Bajre Ki Roti or alongside a hearty bowl of Steamed Brown Rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
