If there is one dish that can transport you straight to the vibrant streets of India, it is undoubtedly Dal Keema. This hearty and flavorful dish has a rich history dating back centuries, originating in the kitchens of North India.

Traditionally made with a combination of lentils and minced meat, Dal Keema is a dish that perfectly marries the earthy flavors of lentils with the bold and aromatic spices of the Indian subcontine

The beauty of Dal Keema lies in its simplicity yet complexity, making it a dish that is beloved by many. The lentils provide a hearty base, while the minced meat adds a protein-packed punch, making it a satisfying meal in itself.

The warm spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala create a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds with every bite.

While Dal Keema may seem like a daunting recipe to tackle, fear not! With a little patience and the right ingredients, you can easily recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen.

Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, Dal Keema is a dish that is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for authentic Indian cuisine.

Ingredients

Red Lentils: Red lentils are a type of lentil that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. They cook faster than other varieties of lentils and have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.

Minced Meat Lamb: Minced meat lamb is ground lamb meat that is commonly used in Indian cooking. It adds a rich and savory flavor to dishes like keema.

Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is used for cooking the ingredients in this recipe. It helps to prevent sticking and adds moisture to the dish.

Onion: Onion is a staple ingredient in Indian cooking. It adds a sweet and savory flavor to dishes and helps to build a solid base of flavor.

Garlic: Garlic is a pungent and flavorful ingredient that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It adds a rich and savory taste to dishes.

Ginger: Ginger is a fragrant root that adds a spicy and warming flavor to dishes. It is commonly used in Indian cooking for its unique taste.

Green Chili: Green chili adds heat and flavor to dishes like keema. It can be adjusted to taste depending on how spicy you like your food.

Ground Cumin: Ground cumin is a common spice used in Indian cooking. It has a warm and earthy flavor that adds depth to dishes like keema.

Ground Coriander: Ground coriander is made from coriander seeds and has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor. It is commonly used in Indian cooking.

Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder is a bright yellow spice that adds color and flavor to dishes. It has a slightly bitter and earthy taste.

Chili Powder: Chili powder adds heat and flavor to dishes like keema. It can be adjusted to taste depending on how spicy you like your food.

Chopped Tomatoes: Chopped tomatoes add sweetness and acidity to dishes. They help to balance out the flavors in keema.

Salt: Salt is a crucial ingredient in cooking as it helps to enhance the flavors of other ingredients. It is added to taste in this recipe.

Fresh Coriander: Fresh coriander, also known as cilantro, adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to dishes. It is commonly used as a garnish in Indian cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Dal Keema hot with steamed rice or naan bread for a traditional meal.
• Garnish with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh coriander for added flavor and freshness.
• Pair with a side of cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and salt for a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
• Create a wrap by filling a warm tortilla with the Dal Keema, some diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for a handheld meal option.

Variations:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the minced meat and double the amount of red lentils for a hearty lentil curry.
• Add a handful of frozen peas or chopped spinach to the dish for a pop of color and added nutrients.
• Experiment with different spices such as garam masala, fenugreek seeds, or mustard seeds to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Try using ground chicken or beef instead of lamb for a different variation of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dal Keema?

Dal Keema is a popular Indian dish made with minced meat and lentils cooked together with fragrant spices.

What type of meat is typically used in Dal Keema?

Minced lamb or goat meat is commonly used in making Dal Keema.

Can I use other types of meat in place of lamb or goat?

Yes, you can use minced chicken or turkey as a substitute for lamb or goat meat in Dal Keema.

Is Dal Keema spicy?

Dal Keema can be made as spicy or mild as you prefer by adjusting the amount of chili powder or fresh chilies in the recipe.

What is the best way to serve Dal Keema?

Dal Keema is typically served with rice, naan bread, or roti. It can also be enjoyed with a side of raita or salad.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Keema Matar
• Keema Karahi
• Brown Lentil Curry
• Dal Chawal
• Keema Pulao

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Dal Keema

by Nabeela Kauser

This flavorful dish combines minced meat with lentils, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Packed with bold spices like cumin and coriander, it offers a delicious blend of textures and tastes.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Indian, Pakistani

Servings 4

Calories 421 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 200 g Lentils red
• ▢ 250 g Minced Meat lamb
• ▢ 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• ▢ 1, Onion finely chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic minced
• ▢ 1 tsp Ginger grated
• ▢ 1, Green Chili finely chopped
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground Coriander
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
• ▢ 200 g Tomatoes
• ▢ 500 ml Water
• ▢ Salt to taste
• ▢ Coriander fresh for garnish

Instructions

• Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes.
• Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced lamb to the pan. Cook, breaking up any lumps with a spoon, until the lamb is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the salt, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pan along with the water.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked through and the mixture has thickened to your liking.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Keema Dal!

Video

Notes

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 421kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 25gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 44mgSodium: 65mgPotassium: 840mgFibre: 17gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 517IUVitamin C: 12mgVitamin D: 0.1µgCalcium: 67mgIron: 6mg

Keyword Cooking, Curry, Dal, Food, Keema, Lentils, Recipe

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