15 Dal Recipe Indian Stovetop Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 29, 2024
Dal, also known as lentil curry, is a staple dish in Indian cuisine. This hearty and flavorful dish is made from a variety of lentils, spices, and herbs and is typically served over rice or with naan bread. While there are many variations of dal, the stovetop method is a classic and reliable way to prepare this classic Indian dish. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious dal on the stovetop, along with some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect consistency and flavor.
Dal Panchratan / Pancharatni (Dal Curry with Five...
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Moong Dal, Urad Dal, Masoor Dal
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish, look no further than Dal Panchratan or Pancharatni. This popular North Indian dish combines five different types of lentils, making it not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber. The lentils are cooked with a variety of aromatic spices and finished off with a touch of tangy tamarind for a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it with some steaming hot basmati rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.
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South Indian Cabbage Dal, Cabbage Kootu
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Pigeon Peas, Pink Lentils, Turmeric, Curry
Cabbage Dal or Cabbage Kootu is a comforting and nutritious dish that hails from the southern region of India. It's made with a combination of cabbage and lentils, along with a blend of spices that gives it a unique and delicious flavor. The dish is then finished off with a tempering of aromatic curry leaves, mustard seeds, and cumin seeds for an added burst of flavor. Serve it with some steamed rice or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Slow Cooker Red Lentil Soup (Dal)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Olive Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Turmeric
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal, then this Slow Cooker Red Lentil Soup is the perfect option for you. It's made with red lentils, a variety of vegetables, and a blend of spices, all cooked together in a slow cooker for a convenient and hands-off cooking experience. The result is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for those chilly days when you just want something warm and comforting to eat.
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Whole green mung dal (Green Moong dal) Sabut moong dal...
Main Ingredients: Dal, Water, Oil, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Tomato, Coriander
Whole Green Mung Dal, also known as Green Moong Dal or Sabut Moong Dal, is a popular and healthy dish from North India. It's made with whole green mung beans, which are packed with nutrients, and a blend of spices that give it a delicious and comforting flavor. This dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for those looking for a protein-rich and vegetarian meal. Serve it with some rice or naan bread for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
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Panchmel Dal | Panchratna Dal
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Moong Dal, Masoor Dal, Arhar Dal, Dal
Panchmel Dal, also known as Panchratna Dal, is a popular Rajasthani dish that is made with a combination of five different lentils, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The lentils are cooked with a blend of spices and finished off with a tempering of aromatic ghee, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. This dish is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber, making it a perfect addition to any vegetarian meal.
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(Bitter Gourd Dal, Bitter Melon Dal, Karela Daal)
Main Ingredients: Bitter Melon, Dhal, Turmeric Powder, Tamarind Juice
Bitter Gourd Dal, also known as Bitter Melon Dal or Karela Daal, is a popular and healthy dish from the Indian state of Maharashtra. It's made with bitter gourd, a vegetable that is known for its numerous health benefits, along with a blend of spices and lentils. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for those who are looking for a healthier option without compromising on taste.
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Dal Fry / Easy Tamilnadu Style Dal Fry
Main Ingredients: Dal, Coconut Oil, Garlic, Curry Leaves, Onion, Green
Dal Fry is a classic Indian dish that is loved by people all over the country. This version of the dish, Easy Tamilnadu Style Dal Fry, is made with a blend of lentils, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, giving it a delicious and comforting flavor. The dish is finished off with a tempering of ghee, cumin seeds, and asafoetida, which adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Serve it with some rice or roti for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Methi Dal, also known as Fenugreek Dal, is a popular and healthy dish from the Indian state of Punjab. It's made with a combination of lentils and fresh fenugreek leaves, which give it a unique and delicious flavor. The dish is then finished off with a tempering of aromatic spices, giving it a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it with some rice or naan bread for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
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Zucchini Koottu / Zucchini Dal ~ Zucchini in Mung Dal...
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Dal, Powdered Turmeric, Grated Coconut, Cumin
Zucchini Koottu, also known as Zucchini Dal or Zucchini in Mung Dal, is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for those looking for a healthy and delicious meal. It's made with zucchini, a variety of lentils, and a blend of spices, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The dish is then finished off with a tempering of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves for an added burst of flavor.
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Dal Bukhara
Main Ingredients: Dal, Vegetable Oil, Coriander Powder, Garam Masala
Dal Bukhara is a popular and indulgent dish that is a must-try for all dal lovers. Originating from the Mughlai cuisine, this dish is made with black lentils, which are slow-cooked with a variety of aromatic spices, giving it a rich and creamy texture. It's then finished off with a generous amount of butter and cream, making it a decadent and satisfying meal that is perfect for special occasions.
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Green Moong Dal Fry
Main Ingredients: Dal, Green Chilli, Onion, Tomato, Ginger Garlic Paste
Green Moong Dal Fry is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy meal. It's made with green moong dal, which is cooked with a blend of spices and finished off with a tempering of aromatic ghee, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can be served with rice or roti for a satisfying meal.
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Dal Makhani
Main Ingredients: Urad Dal, Dal, Melted Butter, Serrano Chilies, Ginger
Dal Makhani is a popular and indulgent dish that is loved by people all over India. It's made with a combination of black lentils and kidney beans, cooked with a blend of spices and finished off with a generous amount of butter and cream. The result is a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for special occasions or when you're in the mood for something indulgent and comforting.
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Vegan Dal Makhani
Main Ingredients: Dal, Rajma, Vegetable Oil, Asafetida, Ginger Garlic
If you're following a vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of Dal Makhani. This Vegan Dal Makhani recipe is made with plant-based ingredients, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste. The dish is still packed with the same richness and flavor as the traditional version, making it a must-try for all dal lovers.
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Dal Seekh Kabab
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Potato, Onion, Green Chillies, Chopped
Dal Seekh Kabab is a unique and delicious twist on the classic Seekh Kabab. Instead of using meat, this version of the dish is made with a combination of lentils, which are cooked with a blend of spices and then formed into kebabs. The kebabs are then grilled to perfection, giving them a smoky and delicious flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
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Rajasthani Dal Muthiya
Main Ingredients: Dal, Turmeric Powder, Green Chilis, Salt, Water, Ghee
Rajasthani Dal Muthiya is a popular and delicious dish from the Indian state of Rajasthan. It's made with a combination of lentils and a variety of spices, which are then formed into small dumplings and cooked in a flavorful gravy. The result is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for those looking for a filling and nutritious meal.
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Shahi Dal Maharani
Main Ingredients: Urad Dal, Ghee, Water, Tomato Puree, Nutmeg, Garam
Shahi Dal Maharani is a rich and indulgent dish that is fit for royalty. This dish is made with a combination of lentils, which are cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and then finished off with a generous amount of cream. The result is a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or when you're in the mood for something truly indulgent.
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Lehsuni Toovar Dal
Main Ingredients: Dal, Oil, Red Chilli, Cumin Seeds, Asafoetida, Chopped
Lehsuni Toovar Dal is a popular and flavorful dish that is perfect for garlic lovers. It's made with toovar dal, also known as pigeon peas, and a generous amount of garlic, giving it a delicious and aromatic flavor. The dish is then finished off with a tempering of cumin seeds, red chili powder, and asafoetida for an added burst of flavor in every bite.
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Yellow Moong Dal
Main Ingredients: Dal, Turmeric Powder, Ghee, Cumin Seeds, Garlic, Medium
Yellow Moong Dal, also known as Split Yellow Moong Dal, is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy meal. It's made with split yellow moong dal, which is cooked with a blend of spices and then finished off with a tempering of aromatic ghee, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Serve it with some rice or roti for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
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Simple Khichdi-Panchratna Dal Khichdi
Main Ingredients: Dal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Salt, Turmeric Powder
Khichdi is a popular and comforting dish that is loved by people all over India. This version of the dish, Simple Khichdi-Panchratna Dal Khichdi, is made with a blend of lentils, rice, and a variety of vegetables, making it not only delicious but also a great source of nutrients. It's a simple and one-pot dish that is perfect for those days when you just want something warm and comforting to eat.
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Dal Tadka – Restaurant style
Main Ingredients: Dal, Moong Dal, Sunflower Oil, Onion, Tomato, Minced
Dal Tadka is a classic Indian dish that is enjoyed in almost every Indian household. This version, Restaurant Style Dal Tadka, is made with a combination of lentils and a blend of spices, giving it a delicious and restaurant-like flavor. The dish is finished off with a tempering of aromatic ghee, cumin seeds, and asafoetida, making it a flavorful and comforting meal that is perfect for any day of the week.
Preparing the Lentils
Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it's time to prepare the lentils. Rinse the lentils thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the lentils in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Soak the lentils for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour. This will help them cook faster and evenly. Once soaked, drain the water and set the lentils aside.
Choosing the Right Lentils
The type of lentils you use can greatly affect the flavor and texture of your dal. For a traditional dal recipe, use split red lentils (masoor dal) or yellow lentils (moong dal). These lentils cook faster and have a creamy texture, making them perfect for dal. However, you can also use a mix of lentils for a more complex flavor. Try adding some split chickpeas (chana dal) or split pigeon peas (toor dal) to your dal mixture.
Adding Flavor with Spices and Herbs
The key to a delicious dal lies in the spices and herbs used. Cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala are essential spices for a flavorful dal. You can also add other spices like mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, or curry leaves for an extra kick. Fresh ginger, garlic, and green chilies are commonly used to add depth and heat to the dish. Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Cooking the Dal
Now that the lentils are prepped and the spices and herbs are ready, it's time to cook the dal. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add the spices and herbs and cook for a minute until fragrant. Next, add diced onions and cook until they are translucent. Then, add the soaked lentils and stir to combine with the spices. Pour in enough water to cover the lentils and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the dal simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjusting the Consistency and Seasoning
As the dal cooks, it will thicken. If it becomes too thick, add more water to achieve your desired consistency. You can also use a whisk or immersion blender to blend the lentils for a smoother texture. Taste the dal and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy taste.
Serving and Storing
Once the dal is cooked to your liking, turn off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve the dal over rice or with naan bread and garnish with fresh cilantro. Leftover dal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and heat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.
Now that you know how to make dal on the stovetop, it's time to get cooking! Experiment with different lentil combinations and spice blends to find your perfect dal recipe. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a main course or as a side dish to your favorite Indian meal.