The recipe for Chana Dal, while seemingly simple, requires a delicate touch to achieve perfection. It involves cooking split chickpeas along with a blend of aromatic spices to create a flavorful and hearty dish.

The key lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a harmonious symphony of tastes.

While the recipe may seem intimidating to some, with a bit of patience and practice, anyone can master the art of making Chana Dal. From soaking the chickpeas to perfectly sautéing the spices, each step is crucial in ensuring a delicious end result.

Whether served with rice, roti, or naan, Chana Dal is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

So, why not give this classic recipe a try? Whip up a pot of Chana Dal and transport yourself to the bustling streets of India with every comforting bite.

Let the enticing aroma of spices and dal fill your kitchen, creating an experience that is both memorable and satisfying. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other with Chana Dal.

Ingredients

Chana Dal: Chana dal, also known as split Bengal gram, is a type of pulse or lentil that is made by splitting chickpeas. It is rich in protein, fiber, and various nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Onion: Onions are a versatile vegetable that adds flavor and aroma to dishes. They can be used raw in salads or cooked in various dishes to add depth and sweetness to the overall flavor.

Garlic: Garlic is widely used in cooking for its strong flavor and aroma. It adds a pungent and slightly spicy taste to dishes and is known for its numerous health benefits.

Turmeric: Turmeric is a bright yellow spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has a warm, bitter taste and is often used for its color as well as its medicinal properties.

Cumin: Cumin is a popular spice used in many cuisines for its distinctive flavor. It has a warm, earthy taste with a hint of bitterness and is known for its digestive properties.

Coriander: Coriander, also known as cilantro, is an herb that is commonly used in cooking for its fresh and citrusy flavor. Both the leaves and seeds of the plant can be used in various dishes.

Red Chilli Powder: Red chilli powder is made from dried, ground red chillies and adds heat and spice to dishes. It can be used in moderation to add a kick of flavor to the recipe.

Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is commonly used for cooking and frying. It has a neutral flavor, making it a versatile option for various recipes.

Salt: Salt is a key ingredient in cooking that helps to enhance the flavors of other ingredients. It also plays a crucial role in balancing out the overall taste of the dish.

Coriander Leaves: Coriander leaves, also known as cilantro, are commonly used as a garnish in many dishes. They add a fresh, herbaceous flavor and a pop of green color to the finished dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To serve the Chana Dal, you can pair it with steamed white rice or jeera rice. You can also serve it with some naan or roti for a satisfying meal. Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and color.

• To add some crunch to the dish, you can top it with some crispy fried onions or roasted peanuts. This will give the Chana Dal an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• If you like your food spicy, you can add some chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the Chana Dal. This will kick up the heat level and give the dish a fiery kick.
• For a creamy finish, you can mix in some coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking. This will give the Chana Dal a rich and indulgent taste.
• If you prefer a tangy twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the Chana Dal before serving. This will add a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish.
• To make the dish more protein-rich, you can add some cooked and diced paneer or tofu to the Chana Dal. This will make the dish more substantial and filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chana Dal?

Chana dal, also known as split chickpeas, is a type of lentil made from dried split chickpeas.

How do I cook Chana Dal?

To cook Chana Dal, first rinse the lentils and then boil them in water until they are soft. You can then season them with spices and herbs according to your preference.

Is Chana Dal healthy?

Yes, Chana Dal is a nutritious food that is high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It is also low in fat and cholesterol.

Can I use Chana Dal in place of other lentils?

Yes, Chana Dal can be used interchangeably with other lentils in most recipes. However, be aware that it has a slightly different flavor and texture than other lentils.

How should I store Chana Dal?

To keep Chana Dal fresh, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf life.

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.

• Palak Chana
• Tadka Dal
• Chicken Chana
• Chana Pulao
• Chana Curry

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!

Chana Dal

by Nabeela Kauser

Experience a traditional Indian dish bursting with rich and earthy flavors. This hearty recipe combines aromatic spices with creamy pulses, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Indian, Pakistani

Servings 4

Calories 227 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 200 g Chana Dal
• ▢ 1 L Water
• ▢ 1 Onion finely chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic minced
• ▢ 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Cumin Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Chilli Powder
• ▢ 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• ▢ 1 tsp Salt
• ▢ Coriander

Instructions

• Rinse the chana dal thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
• In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
• Add the drained chana dal to the saucepan. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
• Pour in the water and add the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, red chilli powder, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the chana dal is tender.
• Once the chana dal is cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Notes

Ensure to rinse the chana dal thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Adjust the amount of red chilli powder according to your spice preference.

If you don’t have a pressure cooker, simmering the chana dal in a regular saucepan works just fine, though it may take slightly longer to cook.

Nutritional facts:

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

Nutrition

Calories: 227kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 9gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 0.5gSodium: 603mgPotassium: 79mgFibre: 14gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 81IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 122mgIron: 3mg

Keyword Chana, Cooking, Curry, Dal, Food, Lentil Curry, Lentils, Recipe, Tadka Dal, Vegetarian

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