Karwar Style Dali Thoy Recipe – Toor Dal Curry
Cuisine: Coastal Karnataka
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Servings: 3
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Karwar, a coastal region in Karnataka, is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes. One of the staple comforts of this region is Dali Thoy, a light and nutritious toor dal curry. Often served with steamed rice, it makes for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. This recipe embodies the rustic flavors of the region, featuring the delicate taste of Toor Dal (split pigeon peas) balanced with a tempering of aromatic spices and herbs. Let’s explore how to make this comforting dal curry.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chilies | 3 |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | A few sprigs |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~7g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~8g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Toor Dal
Begin by rinsing the toor dal (arhar dal) thoroughly in water to remove any dust or impurities. Once cleaned, place it in a pressure cooker along with 1 cup of water and turmeric powder. Close the lid and cook for about 2 whistles on medium heat. After 2 whistles, turn off the flame and allow the pressure to release naturally. This ensures that the dal is perfectly cooked and soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
While the dal is cooking, prepare the tempering, also known as tadka. Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is warm, add mustard seeds. Let the seeds splutter, which releases their distinctive flavor into the oil. Next, add the dry red chilies, asafoetida (hing), and curry leaves. Stir and sauté the mixture for about 30 seconds or until the curry leaves start to splutter. This step infuses the ghee with aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Mash the Dal and Combine
Once the dal is cooked and the pressure has been released, open the lid and mash the dal gently with a spoon or a masher to break down the lentils into a smooth consistency. Add salt to taste and mix well.
Step 4: Add the Tempering
Pour the prepared tempering (tadka) over the mashed dal, making sure to scrape all the spices and ghee from the pan into the dal. Stir the dal well to ensure that the tempering is evenly distributed, infusing the dal with all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by garnishing the Karwar Style Dali Thoy with fresh coriander leaves. This adds a fresh, herbal note to the curry that complements the rich, spiced dal.
Step 6: Serve
Serve this simple yet delicious Toor Dal Curry with hot steamed rice for a comforting and wholesome meal. The combination of the soft, flavorful dal with the aromatic rice creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the coastal kitchens of Karwar.
Tips for Best Results
- Consistency of Dal: If you prefer a thicker dal, reduce the water when pressure cooking. For a more soupy consistency, add a little more water after mashing the dal.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The dry red chilies used for tempering can vary in heat. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before adding them to the tempering.
- Additional Flavors: For a more complex flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving. This adds a tangy kick that pairs wonderfully with the dal.
Serving Suggestions
Karwar Style Dali Thoy pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside steamed rice or chapatis for a traditional meal. You can also enjoy it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a light salad to complete the meal. The delicate flavor of this dal makes it an ideal accompaniment to both spicy and mild curries, allowing you to enjoy a versatile and nourishing meal.
Whether you’re seeking a light meal for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish for a larger feast, Karwar Style Dali Thoy provides a nourishing, flavorful option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The spices, tempering, and fresh coriander bring a delightful complexity to the simple-toor dal, making it a beloved dish in Karnataka’s coastal kitchens. Enjoy this classic with your family and friends for a true taste of South India!
