Chana Dal Pulao: A Hearty and Flavorful Vegetarian Rice Dish
Chana Dal Pulao is a simple yet satisfying Indian rice dish that combines the goodness of basmati rice, lentils, and a blend of aromatic spices. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this hearty one-pot meal is both nourishing and full of flavor. Paired with a refreshing raita or salad, it becomes a wholesome meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1 cup |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Lentils) | 1/2 cup |
| Onions (thinly sliced) | 3 |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Garam Masala or Pulao Masala | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
(Approximate values for 1 serving based on 3 servings total)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 47g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
| Vitamin C | 6mg |
Note: These values can vary based on ingredient brands and exact measurements.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Servings: 3
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
1. Soak Rice and Chana Dal
Start by washing the basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Then soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Similarly, rinse the chana dal (bengal gram lentils) and soak them in water for at least 1 hour. This ensures they cook evenly along with the rice.
2. Sautéing the Spices
Heat sunflower oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds (jeera) and sauté them for a few seconds until they darken slightly. This releases their aromatic flavors.
Next, add the dry red chilies and chopped green chilies to the oil and sauté for another minute. These chilies will infuse the dish with a mild heat and add a depth of flavor.
3. Caramelizing the Onions
Add the thinly sliced onions to the cooker. Stir them frequently and cook until they turn golden brown. This caramelization process will bring out the sweetness and richness of the onions, adding a savory base to the pulao.
4. Cooking the Tomatoes and Spices
Once the onions are browned, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the cooker. Stir and cook them until they become soft and mushy, which will help to form a thick base for the pulao.
Now, add salt to taste, turmeric powder (haldi), and garam masala (or pulao masala) to the mixture. Stir for a few seconds to combine the spices with the onions and tomatoes. These spices will give the pulao its aromatic and colorful base.
5. Add the Rice and Dal
Drain the soaked rice and chana dal. Add both to the pressure cooker along with 2 cups of water. Stir gently to mix the rice, dal, and spices, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
6. Pressure Cooking the Pulao
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and place the weight on top. Cook the pulao over medium heat for 1-2 whistles. After that, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This will help the rice and lentils cook to a soft and tender consistency.
7. Finishing Touches
Once the pressure has released, open the lid and add lemon juice to the cooked pulao. Stir gently to combine the tangy lemon flavor with the rice and dal. The lemon juice will enhance the freshness and brightness of the dish.
8. Serving
Serve the Chana Dal Pulao hot, ideally with a side of Tomato Onion Raita and a Satvik Carrot Sprout Salad for a wholesome and nutritious meal. This simple, flavorful dish can also be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of Indian curries.
Additional Tips:
- Rice Variety: Basmati rice is preferred for its long grains and fragrance, but if unavailable, you can use any other type of long-grain rice.
- Chana Dal: While chana dal adds a lovely texture to the dish, you can substitute it with other lentils if desired. However, the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, or cardamom pods to enhance the flavor of the pulao.
- Vegan Option: This dish is naturally vegan when cooked with vegetable oil, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
Serving Suggestions:
Chana Dal Pulao is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:
- Raita: A cool, creamy yogurt-based side dish like Tomato Onion Raita adds a refreshing contrast to the spiced pulao.
- Salads: A simple Satvik Carrot Sprout Salad with fresh vegetables and light seasonings balances the richness of the pulao.
- Pickles: For an added zing, serve with your favorite Indian pickles or chutneys.
Chana Dal Pulao is not just a meal but a journey through the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine. With its perfectly cooked rice, tender chana dal, and the magical blend of spices, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for both busy weekdays and special occasions, this recipe is a simple, nutritious, and utterly delicious way to enjoy a vegetarian Indian meal!
