Navrang Dal Recipe: A Wholesome & Flavorful North Indian Delight
Navrang Dal is a vibrant and nutritious mixed dal recipe that combines a medley of nine different pulses, making it a high-protein dish perfect for a wholesome lunch. This creamy yet cream-free dal is loaded with flavors, providing a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a healthy vegetarian option or just craving a fulfilling Indian comfort food, Navrang Dal is the way to go!
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Description:
Navrang Dal is a rich and hearty North Indian dish that uses a blend of nine different types of pulses, making it both delicious and nutritious. With no cream involved, this dish still has the creamy texture that is reminiscent of dal makhani. Perfect for those seeking a protein-packed vegetarian dish, Navrang Dal is easy to make and can be enjoyed as part of a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Ingredients for Navrang Dal
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Moong Dal | 2 tbsp |
| White Urad Dal | 2 tbsp |
| Black Urad Dal (Split) | 2 tbsp |
| Masoor Dal (Split) | 2 tbsp |
| Masoor Dal | 2 tbsp |
| Rajma (Kidney Beans) | 2 tbsp |
| Kabuli Chana (Chickpeas) | 2 tbsp |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Soaked) | 1/4 cup (soaked for 20 minutes) |
| Arhar Dal (Toor Dal) | 1 tbsp (soaked for 20 minutes) |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tbsp |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 |
| Coriander Powder | 2 tsp |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam Masala Powder | 2 tsp |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 tbsp |
| Ginger (thinly sliced) | 1-inch piece |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Protein | 14-18g |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50g |
| Fat | 6-8g |
| Fiber | 9-12g |
| Sodium | 200-250mg |
| Iron | 3-4mg |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Navrang Dal
-
Soak the Pulses:
Begin by soaking all the pulses except for the moong dal (green gram) and toor dal (arhar dal). Soak these dals overnight for the best results. Soak the yellow moong dal and arhar dal for 20 minutes prior to cooking. -
Pressure Cook the Dals:
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked dals along with moong dal and toor dal. Add enough water to cover the pulses. Pressure cook the dals for about 3 to 4 whistles. Once the pressure is released naturally, open the cooker. Mash the cooked dal mixture gently and set it aside. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a large pan or kadhai, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and cumin seeds. Allow the cumin seeds to crackle for a few seconds. -
Cook the Onions and Spices:
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook them until they turn light golden brown. This should take around 4-5 minutes. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and sautรฉ for another 3-4 minutes, letting the raw smell disappear. -
Add Tomatoes and Chilies:
Once the onions are cooked, add the finely chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Stir and cook the tomatoes until they become soft and start to break down, about 5-7 minutes. -
Add Dry Spices:
Sprinkle in the coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Stir everything together and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to blend well with the tomatoes and onion. -
Combine with Cooked Dal:
Now, add the mashed dal mixture to the pan, along with salt to taste. Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding water as needed. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Add Kasuri Methi and Garnish:
Once the dal has simmered, add the kasuri methi and let it boil for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, turn off the heat and garnish the dal with freshly chopped ginger. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Navrang Dal hot, ideally paired with Tawa Paratha and a side of Bhindi Masala for a complete, hearty meal. It also goes wonderfully with plain steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Navrang Dal
- Soaking the Pulses: Soaking the pulses overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures that they cook evenly. If you’re short on time, you can soak them for at least 2 hours, but overnight soaking gives the best results.
- Consistency: You can adjust the water to your preferred consistency. For a thicker dal, reduce the water; for a more soupy consistency, add more.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preferences. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
- Ghee: Using ghee gives the dal a rich flavor and enhances the taste. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can substitute it with oil, though the flavor may not be as rich.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves on top can add an extra layer of freshness and flavor to this already delicious dal.
Why You Should Try Navrang Dal
Navrang Dal isn’t just a regular dal; it’s a protein powerhouse thanks to the nine different pulses used in the recipe. Each pulse contributes a unique flavor and texture, making the dish hearty and wholesome. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Navrang Dal is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Plus, itโs incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed with various sides such as roti, rice, or even paratha. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a quick and satisfying lunch, Navrang Dal is the perfect choice!
So, gather your ingredients and try making this flavorful North Indian dish thatโs as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
