DAL MAKHANI

Here’s a simple recipe for Dal Makhani, a popular North Indian dish:

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole black lentils (urad dal)
• 1/4 cup red kidney beans (rajma)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Soak Lentils and Beans: Rinse the lentils and kidney beans thoroughly and soak them in enough water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Pressure Cook: Drain the soaked lentils and beans. In a pressure cooker, add them along with fresh water and a pinch of salt. Pressure cook until they are soft and fully cooked. It may take about 20-25 minutes on medium heat. Once cooked, mash them slightly with the back of a spoon.
3. Prepare Tomato-Onion Base: Heat oil in a separate pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Now, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add Spices: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy and the oil separates. Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for another couple of minutes.
5. Combine Lentils and Beans: Transfer the cooked lentils and beans into the pan with the tomato-onion base. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes on low heat. Adjust the consistency by adding water if necessary.
6. Finish with Cream and Butter: Once the dal is cooked to your desired consistency, add cream and butter. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Check for salt and adjust according to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your delicious Dal Makhani!