Dal Fara Recipe (Indian Stuffed Lentil Dumplings)
Dal Fara, a delightful delicacy from South Indian cuisine, consists of flavorful lentil dumplings that are not only high in protein but also bursting with traditional spices. These dumplings, made with a mixture of lentils and aromatic herbs, can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a tangy tomato garlic chutney, making them a perfect snack or side dish to elevate any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 4 cups |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 cup |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup (optional) |
| Whole Wheat Flour | As required |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon (to taste) |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Green Chillies | 2 (ground to paste, adjust to taste) |
| Salt | As required |
| Sunflower Oil | As required for frying |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 10 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | Few sprigs for garnish |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal |
| Protein | Approximately 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 45 g |
| Fat | Approximately 8 g |
| Fiber | Approximately 10 g |
| Sodium | Variable (depends on added salt) |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 60 minutes |
| Total | 70 minutes |
Instructions
-
Soaking the Lentils: Begin by soaking the White Urad Dal, Chana Dal, and optional Arhar Dal in sufficient water for four to five hours. This softening process is crucial for achieving the right texture.
-
-
Making the Lentil Paste: After soaking, drain the lentils and transfer them to a mixer grinder. Grind them into a coarsely smooth paste, ensuring it maintains some texture for a delightful bite.
-
Mixing Spices: In a bowl, combine the lentil paste with the cumin seeds, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and the paste made from garlic and green chillies. Season with salt just before you’re ready to fill the puris to avoid excess moisture.
-
Preparing the Dough: In another bowl, prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat flour (or rice flour) with water and salt until you achieve a smooth, pliable consistency.
-
Forming the Dumplings: Roll the dough into thick puris. Place a spoonful of the lentil mixture on one half of the puri, fold it over, and seal the edges tightly to form a dumpling.
-
Steaming the Dumplings: Arrange the prepared dumplings in a steamer and cook for about 20 to 30 minutes. They should be firm and cooked through when finished.
-
Tempering the Dal Fara: In a kadhai or wok, heat some sunflower oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida. Allow the cumin to crackle, then gently place in the steamed Dal Fara dumplings. Stir gently to coat them in the tempering.
-
Garnishing: Once the dumplings are well combined with the tempering, remove them from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
-
Serving: Serve your delicious Dal Fara warm on their own or with a vibrant Tomato Garlic Chutney for an unforgettable experience. These dumplings are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a hearty addition to any meal.
Conclusion
Dal Fara is a remarkable dish that showcases the essence of Indian cuisine—rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and the joy of sharing. With its unique taste and nutritional benefits, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process of making these delightful dumplings and savor each bite, knowing you are indulging in a dish crafted with love and tradition!
