Dal Makhani Recipe

Dal Makhani Recipe

Dal Makhani Recipe

Dal Makhani Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide to a Creamy, Flavorful Dish

Dal Makhani, a creamy and rich lentil dish, is a star in Indian cuisine. Made with black lentils and kidney beans, slow-cooked to perfection with butter and cream, it’s comfort food at its finest. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make this delicious dish at home

 ngredients for Dal Makhan

 

Part 1: Ingredients for Dal Makhani

Before we dive into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dal:

  • 1 cup whole black lentils (urad dal)

  • 1/4 cup red kidney beans (rajma)

  • 4 cups water (for pressure cooking)

  • 1 tablespoon salt

For the Tempering (Tadka):

  • 2 tablespoons butter or ghee

  • 1 tablespoon oil

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped

  • 2 tomatoes, pureed

  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

  • 2-3 green chilies, slit

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 tablespoon garam masala

  • 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

  • Salt to taste

For the Creamy Finish:

  • 1/2 cup fresh cream

  • 1/4 cup butter (optional for extra richness)

Preparing the Lentils

 

Part 2: Preparing the Lentils

Step 1: Soak the Lentils

  • Soak the black lentils and kidney beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. This ensures they cook faster and more evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

  • Drain the soaked lentils and kidney beans, then transfer them to a pressure cooker.

  • Add 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of salt.

  • Pressure cook on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes (or 6-7 whistles), until the lentils and beans are soft and mushy.

  • Once done, set the cooked dal aside.

Making the Tadka (Tempering)

 

Part 3: Making the Tadka (Tempering)

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan.

  • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

  • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

  • Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for 1 minute.

  • Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.

  • Add the red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Cook for a few more minutes until the spices are well-blended.

Dal Makhani Combining the Dal and Tadka

 

Part 4: Combining the Dal and Tadka

Step 5: Mix the Dal with the Tadka

  • Add the cooked lentils and kidney beans to the pan with the tadka.

  • Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to combine.

Step 6: Simmer the Dal

  • Add 1-2 cups of water to adjust the consistency of the dal.

  • Let it simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it cook, the better the flavors will develop.

  • Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the dal for a boost of earthy flavor.

Dal Makhani Finishing Touches

 

Part 5: Finishing Touches

Step 7: Add Cream and Butter

  • As the dal simmers, stir in fresh cream to give it that signature creamy texture.

  • If you want it extra rich, you can also add an additional 1/4 cup of butter.

Step 8: Final Simmer

  • Continue simmering the dal on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the cream and butter to fully incorporate.

Dal Makhani serving in plate

 

Part 6: Serving the Dal Makhani

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish with a drizzle of fresh cream and a sprinkle of coriander leaves.

  • Serve hot with naan, paratha, or jeera rice.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Dal Makhani:

  1. Slow Cooking is Key: Dal Makhani tastes best when simmered slowly. If you have time, let it cook on low heat for 1-2 hours for a deeper, more complex flavor.

  2. Use Ghee or Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter or ghee—it’s essential for that creamy, indulgent taste.

  3. Make it a Day Ahead: Like many curries, Dal Makhani tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Conclusion

Dal Makhani is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of Indian comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving something hearty and delicious, this step-by-step recipe will guide you through creating a rich, flavorful bowl of Dal Makhani at home. Pair it with naan or rice, and savor every creamy bite!

 

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