Daal Pithi Recipe: A Traditional Bihari Comfort Dish
Daal Pithi is a nutritious, comforting, and wholesome dish that comes from the heart of Bihari cuisine. This dish combines hearty wheat dumplings (known as “pithi”) with a flavorful and mildly spiced red lentil soup. Daal Pithi is naturally light, yet filling, making it an excellent choice for those who are looking for a light yet satisfying meal. With minimal oil used during tempering, this dish remains healthy and perfect for families, especially for expecting mothers and toddlers.
The comforting texture and aroma of this dish, paired with its soft, doughy dumplings and rich lentil broth, create a dish that is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Whether you’re in need of a nutritious meal or craving a taste of traditional Bihari comfort food, Daal Pithi is sure to delight your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love Daal Pithi
- Health-conscious: With the combination of wheat and red lentils, this recipe provides a balanced meal.
- Great for all ages: The soft dumplings in the lentil soup are gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for toddlers, and the mild spices ensure it’s suitable for expecting mothers.
- Quick and easy: The recipe is easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and a short cooking time.
Cuisine: Bihari
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Water | As required |
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 3/4 cup |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| For Tempering (Tadka) | |
| Onions (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic (chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | As required |
| Coriander Leaves (for garnish) | Chopped, as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Wheat Dumplings (Pithi)
- Knead the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with water to form a smooth dough. The dough should be firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to roll.
- Shape the Dumplings: Take small portions of dough (slightly smaller than a cherry tomato) and roll them into smooth balls. Then, using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin round shape.
- Form the Dumplings: Fold each round dough into half, shaping it like a small dumpling or bowl (similar to the shape of dimsums). Set the dumplings aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Lentil Soup
- Boil the Lentils: In a pressure cooker, add the masoor dal (lentils) and water. Cook the lentils until they come to a boil.
- Add Spices: Once the lentils begin to boil, add cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and ginger garlic paste. Let the lentils simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Dumplings: Gently drop the prepared dumplings into the boiling lentil soup. Close the lid of the pressure cooker, and cook the mixture for two whistles. Afterward, remove it from heat and let it cool down for a few minutes.
Step 3: Preparing the Tempering (Tadka)
- Make the Tadka: In a small pan (tadka pan), heat a little ghee. Add cumin seeds, chopped garlic, chopped onions, and finely chopped green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown and the mixture releases a fragrant aroma.
- Add the Tadka to the Soup: Pour the prepared tempering (tadka) over the cooked dal and dumplings. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish with Coriander: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Serve: Serve the Daal Pithi warm, accompanied by a simple Kachumber Salad or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this nutritious and comforting meal!
Tips & Variations
- Customizing Spices: Adjust the level of red chilli powder according to your spice preference. For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red chili powder and add more coriander powder.
- Make it richer: Add a dollop of ghee or a splash of cream for a richer, more indulgent version of the dish.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrients, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or spinach to the lentil soup.
- Make ahead: Daal Pithi can be prepared in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors intensify the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy days.
Conclusion
Daal Pithi is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming meal that brings together simplicity, nutrition, and comfort. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or seeking a dish for a special occasion, Daal Pithi checks all the boxes. This traditional Bihari recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it was in mine. The soft, doughy dumplings in the spicy lentil soup make every bite comforting and filling, while the minimal oil and rich nutrients ensure that you’re serving a healthy meal to your loved ones.
