Kolhapuri Akkha Masoor Dal Recipe (Masoor Dal in Kolhapuri Masala)
Description:
Kolhapuri Akkha Masoor Dal is a flavorful North Indian dish, which brings the rich, earthy flavors of whole red gram lentils (masoor dal) cooked in a special Kolhapuri masala. The unique combination of roasted sesame seeds, dry coconut, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom infuses this dal with a delightful depth of flavor. The addition of ginger, garlic, and onions sautéed until soft enhances the aroma, while the tomatoes add a hint of tanginess. For an extra punch, you can substitute Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala with the traditional goda masala of Maharashtra for an added twist. This dal, paired with traditional Indian flatbreads like Bajra Roti or Doli Ki Roti, makes for a satisfying, high-protein vegetarian lunch.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 2 cups, soaked for 5 hours |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, chopped |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala (or Goda Masala) | 2 teaspoons |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 3 teaspoons |
| Dessicated Coconut | 3 teaspoons |
Preparation Time
| Time |
|---|
| Prep Time: 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: 35 minutes |
Instructions
-
Roasting Sesame Seeds and Coconut:
- Begin by roasting the sesame seeds and dessicated coconut on a hot, dry pan. Stir occasionally until they turn a golden brown.
- Once roasted, transfer them to a blender and grind them into a smooth powder. Set aside.
-
Cooking the Dal:
- Rinse the soaked masoor dal thoroughly and add it to a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the dal, along with salt to taste.
- Pressure cook the dal for about 5 whistles. Allow the pressure to release naturally once done.
-
Preparing the Masala:
- Heat oil in a flat skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic, and sauté until they soften and release their fragrance.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and soft.
- Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them until they become soft and mushy.
-
Adding the Spices:
- Sprinkle in the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and the Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala (or goda masala if preferred). Stir and cook until the raw smell of the spices disappears, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Combining the Dal:
- Now, add the ground sesame and coconut powder to the skillet and sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked masoor dal to the pan, along with an additional cup of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir well, check for salt, and let the dal simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Serving:
- Serve the Kolhapuri Akkha Masoor Dal hot with traditional Indian flatbreads like Doli Ki Roti or Bajra Roti. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal.
Tips for the Best Kolhapuri Akkha Masoor Dal:
- Soaking the Dal: Soaking the masoor dal for at least 5 hours helps in quicker cooking and enhances the texture of the dal.
- Roasting Spices: The roasting of sesame seeds and coconut is essential to bring out the authentic flavors of Kolhapuri masala. Don’t skip this step.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The Kolhapuri masala can be quite bold in flavor, so adjust the amount based on your preference for spice and heat.
- Substitutes: If you don’t have Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala, you can use goda masala for a milder version, or make your own spice mix with ingredients like garlic, dried coconut, and a blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
This Kolhapuri Akkha Masoor Dal recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of Indian spices and the richness of protein-packed lentils. Whether you are preparing a comforting meal for yourself or serving it to guests, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite. Enjoy it with your choice of roti or rice and experience the authentic flavors of Kolhapur!
