
Dal Makhani
Creamy black lentils simmered with butter, tomatoes, and aromatic spices for a rich, authentic Indian dish.
15 mins
Prep Time
2 hours
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole black lentils (urad dal)
- 1/4 cup kidney beans (rajma)
- 3 cups water
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Soak the black lentils and kidney beans in water overnight or for at least 6 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked lentils, kidney beans, water, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 6-7 whistles or until soft and mushy.
In a large pan, heat ghee and butter. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the cooked lentils and kidney beans to the pan. Mix well and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add fresh cream and kasuri methi. Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes. Adjust salt if needed.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.
Chef's Tips
- Slow Cooking: For best results, cook the dal on low heat for a longer time to enhance the flavors.
- Cream Substitute: You can use yogurt or coconut milk instead of fresh cream for a lighter version.
- Smoky Flavor: For an authentic touch, give the dal a smoky flavor by placing a piece of burning charcoal in a small bowl on top of the dal and covering it for a few minutes.
- Storage: Dal Makhani tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.