Kacche Aam Aur Lehsun Ki Dal Recipe – Curried Lentils With Mango & Garlic
Welcome to an aromatic journey into Indian cuisine with Kacche Aam Aur Lehsun Ki Dal, a comforting, tangy lentil dish infused with the bold flavors of raw mango, garlic, and vibrant spices. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, phulkas, and cooling raita, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup | High in protein and fiber, aids digestion |
| Raw Mango | 1 (cut into 1-inch pieces) | Rich in Vitamin C, boosts immunity |
| Tomato | 1 (finely chopped) | Packed with antioxidants and lycopene |
| Green Chilli | 1 (slit) | Adds spiciness, contains capsaicin |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon | Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances flavor |
| Water | 2 1/2 cups | For cooking lentils |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness, a good source of healthy fats |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (thinly sliced) | Boosts immunity, adds depth to flavor |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon | Aids digestion, aromatic spice |
| SSP Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon | Helps with digestion, adds umami |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Mild heat, vibrant color |
| Dry Red Chilies | 2 | Enhances flavor and aroma |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | Small bunch (chopped) | Adds freshness, rich in vitamins |
Nutrition Per Serving (Approximate for 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Preparation Details
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | High Protein Vegetarian |
Instructions
Cooking the Lentils:
-
Wash the Lentils:
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the toor dal (arhar dal) under running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures even cooking. -
-
Pressure Cook the Dal:
In a pressure cooker, combine the washed dal, raw mango pieces, finely chopped tomatoes, slit green chili, turmeric powder, and salt. Add 2 1/2 cups of water and mix well.- Cook for 4 Whistles: Cover the pressure cooker, set the heat to medium, and allow the dal to cook until 4 whistles are complete. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
-
Adjust Seasoning and Consistency:
Once the pressure has released, open the lid and stir in the chopped coriander leaves. Check for salt and spice levels, adjusting as needed. If the dal is too thick, add more water to achieve your desired consistency. Transfer the dal to a serving bowl.
Preparing the Tadka (Tempering):
-
Heat the Ghee:
In a small tadka pan, heat the ghee on medium heat until hot. -
Add Aromatics:
- Add cumin seeds and dry red chilies. Let them sizzle and release their aroma.
- Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until the garlic turns golden brown.
-
Incorporate Spices:
- Add asafoetida and Kashmiri red chili powder to the hot ghee mixture. Stir quickly and turn off the heat to prevent burning.
-
Pour the Tadka:
Spoon the flavorful tadka over the prepared dal in the serving bowl.
Serving Suggestions
Kacche Aam Aur Lehsun Ki Dal is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Phulkas or Parathas: Serve alongside warm, soft Indian flatbreads for a comforting meal.
- Steamed Rice: Pair with plain steamed rice to let the tangy dal shine.
- Papad and Pickle: Add some crunch with crispy papad and a tangy pickle for extra zing.
- Beetroot Raita: A cooling beetroot raita complements the heat and tang of the dal perfectly.
Tips for Success
- Raw Mango Selection: Choose firm, unripe mangoes for a distinct tangy flavor.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the dal to your liking by adding water gradually.
- Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the green chili and red chili powder.
- Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water before serving.
Experience the unique blend of tangy, garlicky goodness in every spoonful of Kacche Aam Aur Lehsun Ki Dal. With its wholesome ingredients and robust flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the burst of Indian spices and the refreshing twist of raw mango with your loved ones!
