Vegetable Dhansak Recipe: A Flavorful Parsi Delight
Vegetable Dhansak is a delectable dish that beautifully combines the essence of lentils and vegetables, bringing a taste of Parsi cuisine to your dinner table. Infused with aromatic spices and herbs, this hearty meal is perfect for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian option. Let’s dive into the preparation of this delightful dish that serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toor Dal (Pigeon Pea Lentils) | 1/2 cup |
| Yellow Moong Dal | 1/2 cup |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram) | 1/2 cup |
| Fenugreek Leaves (Methi) | 50 grams, chopped |
| Fresh Mint | 20 leaves, chopped |
| Green Chilies | 2, finely chopped |
| Eggplant (Brinjal) | 2, chopped |
| Pumpkin | 1 cup, chopped |
| Turnips (Shikhmool) | 2, chopped |
| Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomatoes | 2, chopped |
| Oil or Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Ginger | 2 inches, chopped |
| Whole Black Pepper | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Cloves | 5 |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1 inch |
| Coriander Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 320 |
| Protein | 16 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 58 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 12 grams |
| Fat | 6 grams |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 25 |
| Cooking | 50 |
| Total Time | 75 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all the ingredients for the Vegetable Dhansak. This includes chopping the vegetables, soaking the lentils, and preparing the spice mixture.
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Make the Dhansak Masala: In a mixer grinder, combine the whole black pepper, cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, coriander seeds, garlic, and ginger with a little water. Grind the mixture to a fine paste and set it aside.
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Soak the Lentils: Rinse the toor dal, yellow moong dal, and chana dal under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the lentils separately in water for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
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Cook the Lentils and Vegetables: In a pressure cooker, combine the soaked lentils, chopped eggplant, pumpkin, turnips, fenugreek leaves, mint leaves, sliced onion, green chilies, and turmeric powder. Add enough water to cover the mixture, and close the lid. Cook until you hear two whistles, then lower the heat and allow it to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
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Mash the Mixture: After cooking, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Open the cooker and, using a potato masher, mash the lentil and vegetable mixture to your desired consistency.
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Prepare the Base: In a separate pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and pulpy.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the previously prepared Dhansak masala to the onion and tomato mixture. Stir well and cook for 5 to 6 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Lentils and Vegetables: Now, introduce the mashed lentil and vegetable mixture to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10 to 20 minutes, allowing the dish to thicken and the flavors to develop further.
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Finish with Lemon Juice: Once cooked, turn off the heat and add the lemon juice, mixing well. The lemon juice enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing tang.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish your Vegetable Dhansak with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with brown rice or your favorite bread, making it a delightful addition to your dinner menu.
Conclusion
Vegetable Dhansak is not just a meal; it’s an experience of rich flavors and a celebration of wholesome ingredients. This dish embodies the spirit of Parsi cuisine, blending lentils and vegetables into a hearty and nutritious recipe. Enjoy it with family and friends, and let the warmth of this dish fill your home with love and satisfaction.
