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Chana Dal Recipe

Chana Dal Recipe I Split Chickpeas Lentil Recipe
Chana Dal Recipe I Split Chickpeas Lentil Recipe
How to make Chana Dal? This is a post about how to make Chana Dal at home with step by step method and photos. Since I am from North India, so sharing North Indian style recipe for Chana Dal. There are many variations available online depending on the region where it belongs.
I always use fresh ingredients to make Dals so likewise, here also I am using fresh onion, tomato, garlic, green chilli, ginger and coriander leaves. Try to use fresh ingredients for your recipe whenever is possible as they enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish, so do not substitute them with frozen ones or store bought bottles of paste. I recommend not to use store bought ginger garlic paste or canned tomatoes for the recipe.
The key element for making a good Dal is, one using fresh ingredients and second using fresh good quality spices to make the Dal. Fresh spices always enhance the flavor any recipe. If you do not like too spicy food like me, then use Kashmiri lal mirch or degi mirch as they are low in spice and gives good color to Dal. I have also added dried fenugreek leaves or kasuri methi in Dal which is an important ingredient for the recipe if you are looking for a nice aroma and flavor.
And lastly, always use clarified butter/ghee for tempering in Dal. However, it is not mandatory but I would highly recommend it especially making any Dal. You could use olive oil or peanut oil or sesame oil here but they would not give the texture and flavor what ghee would give.
 I am also sharing ‘Dhungar Method’ here to give smoky flavor to Dal through hot charcoal, which brings the flavor to another level. It is quite simple method, just heat up a small piece of charcoal in a small bowl and place that bowl over the Dal. Pour a little ghee or oil over the hot charcoal and as you see fumes coming out from charcoal, just close the pot with its lid. Let it be there for 2-3 minutes. However, it is completely optional and you can completely skip it.
So, let’s start making Chana Dal Recipe!
https://www.foodcazt.com/chana-dal-recipe/

Chana Dal Recipe

Chana Dal Recipe: As a housewife and a self-proclaimed food critic, I have a deep love for Indian cuisine, and Chana Dal is one dish that has always held a special place in my heart. The aroma of the slow-cooked lentils, combined with the spices and herbs, transports me to a world of comfort and warmth. The texture of the dal, when perfectly cooked, is creamy and smooth, while the flavor is a perfect balance of spices and earthiness from the lentils. It’s a staple in Indian households, and for good reason.

What is Chana Dal?

Chana Dal is a staple dish in Indian cuisine, made from split chickpeas that have been skinned and split, resulting in a lentil-like texture. The lentils are then cooked with a mixture of spices, herbs, and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a hearty meal.

Variations of Chana Dal

Tadka Chana Dal: This variation features the lentils being tempered with whole spices, such as cumin and mustard seeds, before being simmered with the other ingredients.

Bhuni Chana Dal: This variation features the lentils being roasted in a dry pan before being simmered in a spiced tomato and onion sauce.

Chana Dal with Coconut: This variation features the addition of coconut milk to the lentils, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish with a touch of sweetness from the coconut.

Chana Dal with Eggplant: This variation features the addition of eggplant to the lentils, resulting in a dish with a unique texture and flavor.

Punjabi Chana Dal: This variation is characterized by its use of Punjabi spices and the addition of butter or ghee, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.

Nutrition of Chana Dal

Chana Dal is a nutritious dish, packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, as well as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices used. It is a low-fat and low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those watching their weight. Additionally, the lentils are a great source of iron, making it a perfect dish for vegetarians or those who follow a plant-based diet.

Step by Step Chana Dal Recipe

Chana Dal Recipe I Split Chickpeas Lentil Recipe

Chana Dal Recipe I Split Chickpeas Lentil Recipe
How to make Chana Dal? This is a post about how to make Chana Dal at home with step by step method and photos. Since I am from North India, so sharing North Indian style recipe for Chana Dal. There are many variations available online depending on the region where it belongs.
I always use fresh ingredients to make Dals so likewise, here also I am using fresh onion, tomato, garlic, green chilli, ginger and coriander leaves. Try to use fresh ingredients for your recipe whenever is possible as they enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish, so do not substitute them with frozen ones or store bought bottles of paste. I recommend not to use store bought ginger garlic paste or canned tomatoes for the recipe.
The key element for making a good Dal is, one using fresh ingredients and second using fresh good quality spices to make the Dal. Fresh spices always enhance the flavor any recipe. If you do not like too spicy food like me, then use Kashmiri lal mirch or degi mirch as they are low in spice and gives good color to Dal. I have also added dried fenugreek leaves or kasuri methi in Dal which is an important ingredient for the recipe if you are looking for a nice aroma and flavor.
And lastly, always use clarified butter/ghee for tempering in Dal. However, it is not mandatory but I would highly recommend it especially making any Dal. You could use olive oil or peanut oil or sesame oil here but they would not give the texture and flavor what ghee would give.
 I am also sharing ‘Dhungar Method’ here to give smoky flavor to Dal through hot charcoal, which brings the flavor to another level. It is quite simple method, just heat up a small piece of charcoal in a small bowl and place that bowl over the Dal. Pour a little ghee or oil over the hot charcoal and as you see fumes coming out from charcoal, just close the pot with its lid. Let it be there for 2-3 minutes. However, it is completely optional and you can completely skip it.
So, let’s start making Chana Dal Recipe!
5 from 10 votes
Prep Time 15 mins
Cooking Time 30 mins
Course Main Course, Soups
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 269 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup chana dal / bengal gram
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 tbsp ghee / clarified butter
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 inch ginger
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 2 to Tomato
  • 2 green chillies
  • 1 Onions
  • 1 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ¼ tsp mustard seeds / rai
  • ½ tsp Red Chilli Powder
  • ½ tsp coriander powder
  • 1 dried red chilli
  • 3 curry leaves
  • ¼ tsp garam masala
  • 1 ½ tsp kasuri methi / dry fenugreek leaves
  • coriander leaves / cilantro

For Dhungar Method(optional)

  • piece of charcoal
  • 1 tsp ghee / clarified butter

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
  • Rinse thoroughly chana dal under running water and transfer in the Pressure Cooker.
  • Wash and finely chop onion, tomatoes, ginger, garlic and fresh coriander leaves.

Cooking

  • Pour 2 ½ cups of water, chopped ginger, turmeric powder and 1 tsp salt in the Pressure Cooker and pressure cook the dal for about 5-6 whistles on medium flame and 8-9 on high flame or until it is cooked properly and turns soft. Make sure it should not turn mushy but soft enough to not feel raw while crushing in between your fingers.
  • Now, heat 2 tbsp ghee in a Kadai or Pan over medium flame. And, add chopped garlic in the Kadai and let it saute for few seconds so that raw aroma goes away.
  • Now, add cumin seeds and let it splutter for few seconds. Then, add chopped onion and saute them for few minutes until they are golden brown.
  • Now, add chopped tomatoes and green chilli and saute for another 5-6 minutes until they are cooked thoroughly.
  • After that, add red chilli powder, coriander powder and remaining salt in the Kadai and mix well.
  • Now, add boiled chana dal to the Kadai along with ½ cup of water or more depending on the consistency you prefer. Crush dried fenugreek leaves on top and add garam masala as well.
  • Let the dal simmer for good 5 to 6 minutes so that all masalas absorb nicely in the Dal.
  • Now, in a Tadka Pan, add very little ghee or oil (as you prefer) and once the ghee is hot enough, add mustard seeds, curry leaves and dried red chilli. Let it simmer for few seconds and pour over the Dal. Mix well.
  • Now, at the end, you can use dhungar method to give the smoky flavor as mentioned above or let it keep as it is.
  • Your yummy Chana Dal is ready to serve!

Notes & Tips

  • Soaking Chana Dal: You can soak the chana dal for 2-3 hours, if desired. It reduces the cooking time for Dal. If you do not have time for soaking, just follow the same mentioned procedure.
  • Oil or Ghee? It completely depends on personal choice. However, I would recommend ghee for better aroma and flavor.
  • Salt & Spices: Feel free to adjust salt and spices as per your choice.
  • Dhungar Method: It is an optional step and completely avoidable if you do not like smoky flavors.
  • Ingredients & Equipment: Find these Ingredients & Equipment at specialty food stores or online stores. For review of some stores, please refer to the Grocery Review Section on our Website.

Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)

Nutrition Facts
Chana Dal Recipe I Split Chickpeas Lentil Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
269
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
11
g
17
%
Saturated Fat
 
5
g
31
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
3
g
Cholesterol
 
22
mg
7
%
Sodium
 
966
mg
42
%
Potassium
 
236
mg
7
%
Carbohydrates
 
37
g
12
%
Fiber
 
13
g
54
%
Sugar
 
5
g
6
%
Protein
 
8
g
16
%
Vitamin A
 
622
IU
12
%
Vitamin B1
 
1
mg
67
%
Vitamin B2
 
1
mg
59
%
Vitamin B3
 
9
mg
45
%
Vitamin B5
 
1
mg
10
%
Vitamin B6
 
1
mg
50
%
Vitamin C
 
30
mg
36
%
Vitamin E
 
1
mg
7
%
Vitamin K
 
5
µg
5
%
Calcium
 
118
mg
12
%
Iron
 
3
mg
17
%
Magnesium
 
18
mg
5
%
Zinc
 
1
mg
7
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Keyword ,Chana Dal Recipe, Healthy Indian Dinner Recipes, How to make Chana Dal Recipe, indian vegetarian dinner recipes, Step by step Chana Dal Recipe

FAQs – Chana Dal Recipe

What are the main ingredients in Chana Dal?

Chana Dal is made with split chickpeas, spices, herbs, vegetables, and often includes ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic.

Is Chana Dal a healthy dish?

Yes, Chana Dal is a healthy dish that is low in fat and calories, but high in protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals.

Can Chana Dal be made vegan?

Yes, Chana Dal can easily be made vegan by using vegetable oil instead of ghee or butter.

How long does it take to cook Chana Dal?

It typically takes 30-40 minutes to cook Chana Dal on the stove, but the cooking time may vary depending on the desired consistency and the type of lentils used.

What can I serve with Chana Dal?

Chana Dal is typically served with rice, roti, or naan, and is often accompanied by a side of vegetables or a salad.

See Also:

Dahi Wale Aloo Recipe

Kuttu ki Poori Recipe

Kuttu ka Paratha Recipe

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