If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ve likely come across dhal or dal – a staple dish prepared with lentils or split peas. But what exactly is dhal, and what makes it such a popular dish? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dhal, from its ingredients to its various recipes and health benefits.
What is Dhal?
Dhal, also known as ‘dal,’ ‘daal,’ or ‘dahl,’ is a dish of Indian subcontinental origin made from lentils or split peas. While there are many variations of dhal, the dish typically consists of cooked, spiced lentils or peas that are often served over rice, with naan bread or other flatbread.
What Does Dhal Consist Of?
As mentioned earlier, dhal is traditionally made with lentils or split peas. However, there are various types of lentils and split peas that can be used. Some of the most commonly used lentils for dhal include:
- Red lentils: These are the most commonly used lentils for dhal due to their soft texture and ability to cook faster than other varieties.
- Green lentils: These lentils have a firmer texture and slightly nutty flavor, making them ideal for heartier dhal dishes.
- Yellow lentils: These have a mild flavor that can be easily spiced up, making them ideal for more flavorful dhal dishes.
Other ingredients that may be added to dhal include onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a range of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili, and garam masala. The addition of coconut milk and cream is also common in some dhal recipes.
Red Lentil Dhal Without Coconut Milk
For those who prefer a lighter and less creamy dhal, a red lentil dhal recipe without coconut milk is a great option. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of red lentils
– 3 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of oil
– 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee
– 1 onion
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– 1 red chili
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– Fresh coriander, to garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils in cold water and set aside.
2. Add oil and butter to a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and chili, and cook for a few minutes until the onion is soft.
4. Add the lentils, water, salt, and spices. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for around 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve in bowls with fresh coriander garnish on top.
Is Dhal Made of Lentils?
Yes, dhal is traditionally made of lentils or split peas. Lentils are a type of legume, which means they are a high-protein food that is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Best Dhal Curry Recipe
Looking for the best dhal curry recipe? Here’s a simple and authentic dhal recipe that is sure to please your taste buds:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of red lentils
– 4 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds
– 2 teaspoons of coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– Fresh coriander, to garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils in cold water and set aside.
2. Add oil or ghee to a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and cook for a few minutes until the onion is soft.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well and cook for a minute or so until fragrant.
5. Add the lentils, water, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for around 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5-10 minutes until they have softened.
8. Serve in bowls with fresh coriander garnish on top.
Dhal Puri
Dhal puri is a delicious Indian flatbread that is stuffed with spiced dhal and then rolled out into a thin, crispy layer. It’s a popular street food in India, and while it may seem intimidating to make, it’s actually quite simple. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of flour
– 1 cup of yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 chili, chopped
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon of garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. Mix the flour, water, and salt together until a dough forms. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
2. Set the dough aside to rest.
3. In a pan, add the split peas, onion, chili, and ginger, along with turmeric, garam masala and salt. Add 2 1/2 cups of water and bring to boil.
4. Let the mixture simmer for around 20-30 minutes or until the peas are soft and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Puree the mixture to form a smooth paste.
6. Take a small amount of dough and shape the dough into a ball shape.
7. Flatten the dough and place the dhal paste in the center.
8. Wrap the dough around the paste and shape the dough into a ball again.
9. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough into a thin circle.
10. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add oil or ghee to coat the pan.
11. Cook the dhal puri on the pan on both sides for around 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
12. Serve and enjoy your delicious dhal puri!
Tarka Dhal Recipe
Tarka dhal, also known as ‘tempered dhal,’ is a dish where the lentils or split peas are first cooked, and then tempered with sautéed onions, garlic, and spices. Here’s an easy and quick tarka dhal recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of yellow or red lentils
– 3 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
– Fresh coriander, to garnish
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils in cold water and set aside.
2. In a pot, add the lentils, water, salt, and turmeric powder.
3. Cook the lentils for around 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft and have absorbed all the water. Mash the lentils with a fork or a whisk.
4. In a pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium-high heat.
5. Add the cumin and mustard seeds and cook until they start to sputter.
6. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cook for around 3-4 minutes until the onion has softened.
7. Add the garam masala, stir well to combine.
8. Remove from heat and add the mixture to the cooked lentils pot. Stir well to combine.
9. Serve hot and garnish with fresh coriander.
Dhal Health Benefits
Dhal is not only delicious but also a healthy food choice. Lentils are high in fiber, protein, iron, and other essential micronutrients. Consuming lentils regularly may help with maintaining blood sugar levels, reducing cholesterol, and promoting gut health.
Conclusion
Dhal is a versatile and healthy dish that is enjoyed worldwide. You can prepare it in various ways, using different lentils, spices, and flavors. Whether you prefer a creamy, coconut-based red lentil dhal or a spicy tarka dhal, there’s a recipe out there that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, why not try making dhal at home today? We hope this guide has helped you understand the many benefits and variations of this delicious cuisine.