Dal Makhani, a rich and flavorful Punjabi lentil dish, is a staple in many Indian homes. This creamy and buttery dal is made with a combination of whole urad dal (black gram) and chana dal (chickpea), simmered in a fragrant tomato-based gravy. The addition of spices like cumin, ginger, and garam masala gives it a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole urad dal (black gram)
 - 1 cup chana dal (chickpea)
 - 1 cup rajma (kidney beans)
 - 2 tomatoes, chopped
 - 2 inches ginger, grated
 - 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
 - 1 teaspoon MDH Dal Makhani masala
 - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
 - 1 teaspoon coriander powder
 - Salt to taste
 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
 - 1 tablespoon kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
 - 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
 - 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
 - 1 green chili, finely chopped
 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
 
Instructions:
- Prep the lentils: Rinse the urad dal, chana dal, and rajma thoroughly. Soak them in water for at least 8 hours, or overnight, in a pressure cooker.
 - Cook the lentils: Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pressure cooker with 4 cups of water. Pressure cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the cooker.
 - Simmer the lentils: Transfer the cooked lentils to a large pot and simmer over low heat, adding more water as needed to maintain a thick consistency.
 - Make the tadka: Heat ghee or oil in a small pan. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add the grated ginger and green chili, and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
 - Add spices: Stir in the MDH Dal Makhani masala, turmeric powder, coriander powder, paprika, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
 - Combine with lentils: Pour the tadka mixture into the simmering lentils. Stir to combine well.
 - Simmer and adjust flavor: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the dal for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the kasoori methi and sugar (if using) towards the end.
 - Season and serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.
 
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can roast the spices in a dry skillet before grinding them.
 - If you prefer a thicker dal, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to the simmering dal.
 - To make this recipe vegan, use vegetable oil instead of ghee.
 
Enjoy this delicious and comforting Dal Makhani!

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