Dal Kabila Recipe: A Flavorful Mughlai Delight
Dal Kabila, a rich and spicy dal, is a traditional dish from the Mughal era, bringing together a robust blend of spices, flavors, and aromatic ingredients. This North Indian delicacy is made using white urad dal (although black urad dal can be used for a deeper flavor), making it a satisfying choice for a hearty lunch. The dish is known for its vibrant and aromatic spices that offer a unique flavor profile, combining the mild richness of dal with the bold heat of dried red chillies, garam masala, and other spices. Perfect for diabetic-friendly diets, this recipe is a one-pot meal that delivers on taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for Dal Kabila:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tsp |
| White Urad Dal | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 inch |
| Cloves | 3 cloves |
| Dried Red Chillies | 3 dried chillies |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 long cloves |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1/2 inch |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Coriander Powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Coriander Leaves | 3 sprigs (chopped) |
| Water | 3 cups |
For Tempering (Tadka):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Whole Black Pepper | 1 tsp (crushed) |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: North Indian
Diet: Diabetic Friendly
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Urad Dal
Begin by thoroughly washing the white urad dal. Soak it in water for at least 2 hours to soften and speed up the cooking process.
Step 2: Cooking the Dal
- In a pressure cooker, heat 1 tsp of ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the dried red chillies, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté the spices on low flame for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrant oils.
- Add the chopped onion and green chilli to the cooker. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped tomato, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Cook this mixture for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the spices to meld together.
- Add the soaked and drained urad dal to the cooker. Pour in 3 cups of water, ensuring that the dal is well covered. Close the pressure cooker and cook the dal for 5 to 6 whistles on medium heat.
- Once the cooking time is done, turn off the gas and allow the pressure to release naturally. Open the cooker and check the consistency of the dal. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more water to adjust to your desired texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
- Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a small pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds and crushed black pepper. Allow the cumin seeds to crackle and release their distinct aroma.
- Pour the hot tempering over the cooked dal and stir well to mix the spices with the dal.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dal with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes like Spinach Ragi and Oats Wheat Thepla or Khamang Cucumber for a well-rounded, flavorful lunch.
Serving Suggestions
Dal Kabila pairs wonderfully with flatbreads like naan, roti, or paratha. For a complete meal, enjoy it with a side of vegetables, a light salad, or rice for a traditional touch.
This Dal Kabila recipe brings the taste of Mughal-era kitchens to your table, offering both authenticity and flavor in every spoonful. Rich, spicy, and full of depth, this dal will be a hit in any home, whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or an impressive dish for a special occasion. The aromatic spices and creamy texture make it a delightful experience for your taste buds while keeping your health in mind with its diabetic-friendly ingredients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% of DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% of DV |
| Calcium | 4% of DV |
| Iron | 15% of DV |
Enjoy Dal Kabila as a flavorful and nutritious part of your lunch menu. It offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a great addition to your diabetic-friendly meal planning.
