17 Indian Dahl Recipe Slow Cooker You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 29, 2024
As mentioned in our previous article, the Indian dahl recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. While the traditional way of cooking dahl involves a long and tedious process, we understand that not everyone has the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen. That's where the slow cooker comes in, providing a convenient and efficient way to make this delicious dish. In this article, we will explore how to make the perfect Indian dahl using a slow cooker, so you can enjoy a warm and hearty meal without all the hassle.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Olive Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Turmeric
This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening, and it's even better when it's made in a slow cooker! Simply toss in some red lentils, vegetables, and spices, and let it cook low and slow for a few hours. The end result is a creamy and comforting soup that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
2of 20
Langarwali Dal In Slow Cooker
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Water, Salt, Haldi, Ginger, Cilantro
This traditional Punjabi dish is typically served in the langar (community kitchen) of a gurdwara (Sikh temple). But now, you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home by making it in a slow cooker! This dal is made with a mix of lentils, onions, and spices, and it's full of flavor and nutrition. Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal later on.
3of 20
Dal Panchratan / Pancharatni (Dal Curry with Five...
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Moong Dal, Urad Dal, Masoor Dal
Why settle for just one type of lentil when you can have five? This dal curry is made with a mix of five different lentils, making it not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The addition of a variety of spices gives it a depth of flavor that will have you going back for seconds. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
4of 20
South Indian Cabbage Dal, Cabbage Kootu
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Pigeon Peas, Pink Lentils, Turmeric, Curry
This South Indian dish is a perfect blend of lentils, spices, and vegetables. The lentils give it a creamy texture, while the cabbage adds a delicious crunch. This dish is also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet. Serve it with some steamed rice and a side of yogurt for a complete and balanced meal.
5of 20
Dal Makhani
Main Ingredients: Urad Dal, Dal, Melted Butter, Serrano Chilies, Ginger
This rich and creamy dal is a staple in North Indian cuisine, and for good reason. Made with black lentils, kidney beans, and a variety of spices, this dal is full of flavor and nutrition. It's usually made with a lot of butter and cream, but you can easily make a healthier version in your slow cooker by using less of these ingredients. Nevertheless, it's a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
6of 20
Red Lentil Dal
Main Ingredients: Red Lentils, Dal, Vegetable Broth, Diced Tomatoes
Red lentils are a favorite among many because they cook fast and have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of spices. This dal is a perfect example of how versatile red lentils can be. It's a simple and easy dish that can be made in a slow cooker with minimal effort. Serve it with some naan or rice for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Main Ingredients: Yellow Split Peas, Dal, Red Lentils, Yellow Lentils
Haleem is a popular dish in Pakistan and other South Asian countries, and it's usually made by slow cooking a variety of meats and lentils. This easier version uses beef and red lentils and is perfect for those who don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, and you're left with a hearty and flavorful stew that will keep you warm and satisfied.
8of 20
Easier Slow Cooker Haleem (Pakistani Beef and Lentil...
Main Ingredients: Yellow Split Peas, Dal, Red Lentils, Yellow Lentils
Here's another version of haleem that uses a mix of beef and lentils, but with a different spice blend. This version is a bit more traditional and is perfect for those who love bold and spicy flavors. The slow cooker ensures that the meat is cooked to perfection and the lentils are tender and creamy. This dish is best served with some lemon wedges and chopped fresh cilantro.
9of 20
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 sabut moong dal, is a staple in many Indian households. It's a simple and nutritious dish that can be made in a slow cooker with minimal effort. The lentils are cooked until they are soft and creamy, and then they are flavored with a variety of spices. This dish is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
10of 20
South Indian Dhal Slow cooker
Main Ingredients: Dhal, Yellow Onion, Medium Tomatoes, Green Chillies
If you're a fan of South Indian cuisine, then you'll love this slow cooker version of dhal. Made with toor dal, a variety of spices, and coconut milk, this dish has a unique and delicious flavor that will have you going back for seconds. The slow cooker helps to infuse all the flavors together, resulting in a perfectly balanced and aromatic dish.
11of 20
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 mix of five different lentils. Each lentil has its own unique flavor and texture, making this dish a delicious and nutritious blend of flavors and textures. This dish is typically made on special occasions or festivals, but now you can enjoy it any time by making it in a slow cooker.
12of 20
Dal Fry / Easy Tamilnadu Style Dal Fry
Main Ingredients: Dal, Coconut Oil, Garlic, Curry Leaves, Onion, Green
Dal fry is a popular dish in India, and each region has its own unique way of making it. This version is inspired by the Tamil Nadu style of cooking, and it's a simple and easy dish that can be made in a slow cooker. The lentils are cooked with a variety of spices and tempered with ghee, giving it a rich and delicious flavor. Serve it with some rice or roti for a complete meal.
13of 20
(Bitter Gourd Dal, Bitter Melon Dal, Karela Daal)
Main Ingredients: Bitter Melon, Dhal, Turmeric Powder, Tamarind Juice
If you're looking for a way to incorporate more bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, into your diet, then this dal is the perfect dish for you. The bitterness of the gourd is balanced out by the lentils and spices, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish. This dal is also a great option for those who are looking for low-carb and diabetic-friendly meals.
14of 20
Zucchini Koottu / Zucchini Dal ~ Zucchini in Mung Dal...
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Dal, Powdered Turmeric, Grated Coconut, Cumin
If you're tired of the same old zucchini recipes, then give this dish a try. Zucchini is cooked with mung dal and a variety of spices, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious dish. This dish is perfect for those who are trying to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, as well as those who are looking for gluten-free and vegan options.
Methi dal, or fenugreek dal, is a popular dish in North India. It's made with a mix of lentils, fresh fenugreek leaves, and a variety of spices. The slow cooker helps to infuse all the flavors together, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish. This dal is also a great source of iron and protein, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
16of 20
Dal Bukhara
Main Ingredients: Dal, Vegetable Oil, Coriander Powder, Garam Masala
Dal Bukhara is a rich and creamy dish that is typically served in high-end Indian restaurants. But now, you can recreate this restaurant-style dish at home by making it in a slow cooker. Black lentils are slow-cooked with spices, tomatoes, and cream, resulting in a dish that is full of flavor and texture. Serve it with some naan or rice for a truly indulgent meal.
17of 20
Yellow Moong Dal
Main Ingredients: Dal, Turmeric Powder, Ghee, Cumin Seeds, Garlic, Medium
Yellow moong dal is a staple in many Indian households, and it's a versatile dish that can be made in a variety of ways. This version is made in a slow cooker, which helps to infuse all the flavors together and results in a creamy and delicious dal. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a quick and easy meal that is also packed with nutrition.
18of 20
Green Moong Dal Fry
Main Ingredients: Dal, Green Chilli, Onion, Tomato, Ginger Garlic Paste
Green moong dal, also known as sabut moong dal, is a popular dish in North India. It's a simple and nutritious dish that is made by tempering cooked lentils with spices. The slow cooker makes this dish even easier to make, and it ensures that the dal is perfectly cooked and flavored. This dish is best served with some rice or roti for a complete meal.
19of 20
Dal/ Daal/ Dhal
Main Ingredients: Dal, Vegetables, Mango, Onion, Cloves, Green Chillies
Dal, daal, or dhal, however you spell it, is a staple in Indian cuisine. This dish is made with a variety of lentils, spices, and vegetables, and it's a delicious and nutritious meal that can be made in a slow cooker. The lentils and vegetables are cooked low and slow, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for any day of the week.
20of 20
Dal Seekh Kabab
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Potato, Onion, Green Chillies, Chopped
If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy dal, then try making these dal seekh kababs. Cooked lentils are mixed with a variety of spices and formed into kababs, which are then grilled or baked to perfection. These kababs are not only tasty but also a great source of protein and fiber. Serve them with some mint chutney for a flavorful and healthy snack or appetizer.
Preparing the Ingredients
Gather Your Spices
Before you start cooking, it's essential to have all the necessary ingredients ready. For this recipe, you will need garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. These spices are the key to achieving the authentic Indian flavors in your dahl. You can either use store-bought spices or make your own by toasting whole spices and grinding them into a powder. Whichever method you choose, make sure your spices are fresh and of good quality.
Soak the Lentils
To ensure that your dahl cooks evenly, it's essential to soak the lentils beforehand. Red lentils are the most commonly used for dahl, but you can also use yellow lentils for a slightly different flavor. Soak the lentils in water for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. This step will also help reduce the cooking time in the slow cooker.
Cooking the Dahl
Sauté the Aromatics
Before adding the lentils to the slow cooker, it's best to sauté some aromatics to enhance the flavor of the dahl. In a pan, heat some oil and add minced garlic, ginger, and onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant. This step is optional, but it adds an extra depth of flavor to the dish.
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Now it's time to assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the slow cooker along with the sautéed aromatics. Next, add the spices, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Adjusting the Consistency
After the cooking time is up, you may notice that the dahl has thickened. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add some water or broth and mix well. You can also use an immersion blender to blend the dahl to your desired consistency.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the dahl is cooked and has reached your desired consistency, it's time to serve and enjoy! You can garnish your dahl with some chopped cilantro and serve it with rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for future meals.
Now that you know how to make Indian dahl in a slow cooker, you can easily satisfy your cravings for this delicious and comforting dish. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!