Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal Recipe: A Comforting Lentil Curry with Bold Flavors
Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal, a delightful and hearty lentil curry, brings the rich flavors of Hyderabadi cuisine to your table. This dish is not only packed with wholesome nutrition but also features a perfect balance of spices and aromatics that make it an irresistible addition to your meal plan. Ideal for a fulfilling lunch, this recipe is high in protein and a delightful vegetarian option.
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: Hyderabadi
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients for Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pink Masoor Dal (Split) | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch piece |
| Green Chillies (slit) | 2 |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | 6 sprigs |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
Instructions for Preparing Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal:
Step 1: Prep the Dal
Start by thoroughly washing the Pink Masoor Dal under cold running water. Drain and set aside for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a pressure cooker, heat ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee melts and becomes hot, add the finely chopped garlic, ginger, green chillies, and sliced onions. Sauté these ingredients for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions turn translucent and begin to lightly brown. This stage releases the essential aromas and starts the flavor base of the curry.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Now, add the chopped tomato, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt into the cooker. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the tomatoes soften and turn mushy, releasing their juices.
Step 4: Cook the Dal
Add the washed and drained masoor dal to the cooker, followed by 1½ cups of water. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. After the second whistle, reduce the heat to low and allow the dal to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes. This step ensures the dal is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Adjust Seasoning
Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally from the cooker. Once the pressure has subsided, open the lid and check the seasoning. Adjust salt according to taste if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, stir in the finely chopped coriander leaves for a burst of fresh flavor. Give everything a gentle mix, and your delicious Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this flavorful Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal with Bharwa Bhindi (stuffed okra), Homemade Butter Naan, Dhaba-Style Spicy Ghee Rice, and a refreshing Spring Onion and Peanut Raita for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal:
- Adjust Spiciness: The recipe calls for green chillies and red chilli powder to add spice. Feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dal, you can reduce the water slightly or mash the cooked dal a bit before garnishing.
- Additions: For a more indulgent variation, you can stir in a spoonful of cream at the end, or add a dash of lemon juice for a tangy finish.
- Stovetop Variation: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook the dal in a regular pot. Just ensure to soak the dal for about 30 minutes and then simmer it for 25-30 minutes until tender.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Dal is a true delight that brings the essence of Hyderabadi cuisine into your kitchen. The simple ingredients come together to create a wonderfully flavorful and nutritious dal that is perfect for a busy weekday lunch or a comforting family dinner. The rich taste of ghee, coupled with the vibrant spices, makes this dish an unforgettable treat for your taste buds!
Perfect for anyone following a high-protein vegetarian diet, this dish is a wholesome, hearty meal. Whether you pair it with roti, rice, or enjoy it on its own, it promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
This recipe not only highlights the taste of the ingredients but also offers an easy-to-follow guide for anyone looking to cook an authentic, delicious Hyderabadi dish. Don’t forget to enjoy it with loved ones for an even more satisfying experience!
