Dal Bhat: Nepalese Lentil Soup
Dal Bhat is a comforting and nutritious Nepalese dish, known for its mild spiciness and rich, hearty flavors. This lentil soup, often served with rice (bhat), is a traditional staple in Nepalese cuisine. It offers a perfect balance of spices, bringing warmth and depth to your meal, while being easy to prepare and packed with plant-based protein. Whether youβre looking to try something new or enjoy a classic vegetarian dish, Dal Bhat is a wonderful option that provides nourishment and satisfaction.
Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee or oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 5 cm piece |
| Coriander seeds, crushed | 1 tsp |
| Green chili (optional) | 1 |
| Red chili powder | Β½ tsp |
| Turmeric | Β½ tsp |
| Red lentils, washed | 200g |
| Water | 700ml |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the base:
In a large frying pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. SautΓ© the onion until it becomes translucent, but avoid browning it. This should take about 3-4 minutes. -
Infuse the spices:
Turn the heat to low and add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green chili (if using), crushed coriander seeds, red chili powder, and turmeric. Stir well and cook for another 3 minutes to allow the spices to release their aromas and flavors. -
Add the lentils:
Add the washed red lentils to the pan and mix them thoroughly with the onion and spice mixture, ensuring the lentils are well-coated with the flavors. -
Simmer the soup:
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the salt and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed the flavors. If needed, add a little more water to achieve your desired consistency. -
Finish and serve:
Once the lentils are cooked through and soft, remove the pan from heat. Stir in some fresh coriander for an added burst of freshness. Serve the Dal Bhat hot, ideally alongside steamed rice (bhat) for a traditional Nepalese meal.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: This dish contains ghee or oil, which is dairy-based if using ghee. If youβre following a dairy-free or vegan diet, substitute ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
- May contain traces of: This dish is prepared with common spices and lentils, making it suitable for most individuals, but always check for any personal ingredient sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based and does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Vegan: To make this dish vegan-friendly, ensure that the ghee is replaced with a plant-based oil.
- Gluten-Free: Dal Bhat is naturally gluten-free, as it is made from lentils and spices, with no wheat-based ingredients involved.
Cooking Tips & Advice:
- Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup once the lentils are fully cooked. This will result in a creamier consistency.
- Spice Level: The green chili is optional, and if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it entirely. Adjust the amount of red chili powder to suit your taste.
- Adding Vegetables: For a more substantial soup, you can add chopped vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, or spinach. These will not only enhance the flavor but also increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Serving: While traditionally served with rice, Dal Bhat can also be enjoyed with flatbreads like naan or paratha for a change. You can pair the soup with a side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the warmth of the soup.
Conclusion:
Dal Bhat is a versatile and wholesome meal that encapsulates the essence of Nepalese cuisine. Its comforting warmth, combined with the fragrant spices, makes it an excellent choice for a filling and nourishing dish. Whether youβre preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of Nepalese tradition to your table. Enjoy the hearty goodness of Dal Bhat, and let it become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire!
