Turnip Chana Dhal (Shalgam Chana) Recipe
Description:
Turnip Chana Dhal, also known as Shalgam Chana, is a warm, hearty vegetarian dish that blends the earthy flavors of turnips with the rich protein of chana dal (split chickpeas). This mildly spiced recipe offers a comforting balance of textures and flavors, perfect for a nutritious, filling meal. The dish is easy to prepare, and with a combination of fresh, fragrant spices and simple ingredients, it’s a must-try for anyone craving a wholesome, meat-free dish.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Spice Level: Mild
Views: 47,237
Rating: 4.1/5 (28 Votes)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Turnips (small) | 4 |
| Chana Dal (split chickpeas) | 125g |
| Onion (small), sliced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, sliced | 2 |
| Ripe tomatoes | 3 |
| Green chillies | 1-2 |
| Fresh ginger (piece) | 4 cm |
| Cooking oil | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Cassia bark (optional) | 4 cm |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Coriander seeds | 1 tsp |
| Red chilli powder | ½ tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt (or to taste) | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander, chopped | A handful |
Allergen Information
This dish contains chana dal, which is a legume. Legumes are a common allergen for some individuals, so it is important to ensure that no one consuming the dish has a legume allergy. This recipe is naturally free of gluten and dairy, making it suitable for those following gluten-free and lactose-free diets.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: The dish is entirely plant-based and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
- Vegan: To make the dish vegan, avoid the optional butter garnish.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe does not contain gluten, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe can be kept dairy-free by omitting butter for garnishing.
Instructions
-
Prepare Chana Dal:
Begin by cleaning the chana dal and soaking it in water for 3-4 hours. This soaking process will help soften the dal and reduce cooking time. -
Prepare Turnips:
Peel the turnips, wash them thoroughly, and cut them into small bite-sized pieces. Set them aside for later use. -
Cook the Dal and Turnips:
In a pressure cooker, combine the soaked chana dal and chopped turnip pieces. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Close the cooker and heat it on medium. After the first whistle, reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 4 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and leave the cooker closed until the pressure naturally releases. -
Prepare the Masala Paste:
While the dal and turnips cook, roughly chop the tomatoes, green chillies, and ginger. Set aside.
In a frying pan, dry roast the cumin, mustard, and coriander seeds until they darken slightly and release a fragrant aroma. Once roasted, crush the spices using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
Next, place the chopped tomatoes, green chillies, and ginger into a blender and pulse them into a smooth paste. -
Cook the Aromatics:
In another frying pan, heat the oil and add the roasted cumin and cassia bark. Let them sizzle for a moment before adding the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions begin to brown lightly. -
Make the Masala:
Stir in the turmeric powder, salt, and the freshly ground spices into the onion-garlic mixture. Once fragrant, add the blended tomato paste and cook the mixture until it thickens into a masala sauce. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. -
Combine the Dal and Masala:
Once the chana dal and turnips are cooked and the pressure cooker is safely opened, check the dal’s doneness by gently pressing a few pieces of dal between your fingers. If soft, it is ready. Stir the prepared masala sauce into the dal and turnip mixture. -
Adjust Consistency:
If the dish seems too thick for your liking, add hot water in small increments until you achieve the desired consistency. -
Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped fresh coriander for a fresh, herby finish. Optionally, add a small knob of butter on top for extra richness. -
Serve:
Your Turnip Chana Dhal (Shalgam Chana) is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with chapati, rice, or naan bread, and enjoy the soothing, aromatic flavors of this healthy dish.
Advice & Tips
- Dal Consistency: If you prefer a soup-like consistency, feel free to add more water or broth after cooking the dal. For a thicker dish, you can let it simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid.
- Spice Level: This recipe is mild, but you can adjust the heat by adding more green chillies or increasing the red chilli powder according to your preference.
- Vegan Option: To keep the dish fully vegan, omit the optional butter garnish or use plant-based butter.
- Storage: Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. It also freezes well for future meals!
Conclusion
Turnip Chana Dhal (Shalgam Chana) is a nutritious, comforting vegetarian dish packed with protein and flavor. Its mild, aromatic spices combine beautifully with the turnips and chana dal, making it a filling and wholesome meal. Whether served with rice or bread, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. The simple, fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this dish a must-try for anyone looking to explore traditional vegetarian Indian recipes. Enjoy the delightful balance of earthy turnips and savory chana dal, all brought together by aromatic spices and a rich, flavorful masala sauce.
