Chana dal tadka recipe (Split Chickpeas) : A Delectable Indian Delight

Chana Dal Tadka Recipe is a very tasty and healthy recipe. a simple recipe for dal fried that is made with split pea lentils or toor dal, very similar to the popular dal fried recipe. Essentially, the dal is pressure cooked with a tomato and onion base to create the chana dal masala. To give it flavor and scent, various Indian spices are also incorporated.

This chana dal tadka recipe is low in fat, vegetarian, vegan, and simple to prepare gluten-free. It also has a lot of strong spices.

This chana dal tadka recipe is made with very easy and easily available ingredients. Finally, I’d like to offer some advice on how to use Bengal gram successfully. Both the soaking procedure and even no soaking are acceptable ways to prepare the dal

 

Chana dal is not only tasty, but it’s also healthy. The Kala chana, or black or brown chickpeas, are an excellent source of plant-based protein that is low in fat and high in fiber. As a result, this dish is a great choice for anyone following a low-carb, diabetic-friendly, or vegetarian diet.

Ingredients for chana dal tadka recipe

Cook Lentils

• 250-gram chana dal
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

Others Ingredients

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 green chili (finely chopped)
• 1-inch ginger (finely chopped)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tomato (finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• a pinch of asafoetida (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon Kasuri methi crushed
• 2 tbsp coriander leaves

Instructions for chana dal tadka recipe

Cook Lentils

1. First, rinse 1 cup of chana dal (split chickpeas) in running water a couple of times.
2. then add it to a pressure cooker along with 2.5 cups water (20 oz), 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
3. Pressure cook the chana dal for about 10 to 11 minutes, or 7 to 8 whistles, on high heat in the pressure cooker.
4. Check the lentils they should be very soft and easy to mush with the back of a spoon.
5. Cover the pot and set it aside.

Make Chana Dal

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy bottom pan on medium heat.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and fry for a few seconds, until they crackle and sizzle.
3. Also add ginger, chili, and garlic. Saute for a few seconds.
4. Now add chopped onions and cook for around 3 to 4 minutes until they are soft and start to change color.
5. Then add the chopped tomatoes, stir and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until they turn soft and mushy and completely cooked.
6. Then add the spices- coriander powder, garam masala, asafoetida, Kashmiri red chili powder, salt to taste, and Kasuri methi.
7. Mix and continue to sauté. Cook until the oil starts to leave the side of the masala mixture.
8. Now, add the boiled chana dal to the pan. Stir very well.
9. Then add 2 cups of water and give a good mix.
10. Mash some lentils with the spoon as you go on stirring. Mashing some lentils helps the dal to thicken.
11. let the dal simmer for 5 to 6 minutes on medium-low heat.
12. garnish with coriander leaves.
13. finally, serve chana dal hot with rice and roti.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve it with plain rice or jeera rice or with roti and any sabzi as a part of a simple Indian meal. You can also eat it with quinoa or any other grain of choice.

Enjoy homemade chana dal with roti, steamed basmati rice, cumin rice, or Saffron Rice. It’s also great with a side of raita, a fresh green salad, or nearly any vegetable dish.

You can also serve it with Naan, some Cucumber raita, and some papad as a complete meal!

TIPS AND VARIATIONS

• This recipe uses oil so it’s vegan. But you can use ghee here, will add flavor.
• additionally, adjust the spices according to your choice.
• I do not soak the chana dal and cook it straight away. If you want to soak for 3-4 hours, reduce the cooking time.
• you can increase the number of spices like green chilies and red chili powder to make the dal taste spicy.
• Change the consistency of the chana dal by adding less or more water while simmering it later.
• Finally, squeeze some lemon juice for more tanginess.

FAQs

1. What is Chana Dal Tadka, and where does it originate from?

Chana Dal Tadka is a classic Indian dish made from split chickpeas (chana dal) cooked to perfection and seasoned with a tempering of aromatic spices. It is a popular and beloved dish across India, with its origins deeply rooted in the diverse and vibrant Indian cuisine.

2. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of chana dal?

While it is possible to use canned chickpeas, the authentic taste and texture of Chana Dal Tadka come from using dried chana dal. Canned chickpeas might have a different texture, and the dish won’t have the same depth of flavor as the traditional version.

3. How do I ensure that the chana dal cooks perfectly?

To ensure that the chana dal cooks perfectly, make sure to soak it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Additionally, using a pressure cooker is recommended to cook the dal faster and more evenly. Cook the dal until it becomes soft and tender, but not mushy.

4. Can I adjust the spiciness of Chana Dal Tadka to suit my taste preferences?

Absolutely! The beauty of Indian cooking lies in its adaptability. You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by varying the amount of red chili powder and green chilies used in the tempering. Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect level of heat for your palate.

5. Is Chana Dal Tadka a vegetarian or vegan dish?

Yes, Chana Dal Tadka is a vegetarian dish. To make it vegan, simply replace ghee (clarified butter) with any vegetable oil of your choice in the tempering process.

6. Can I store leftover Chana Dal Tadka?

Certainly! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency.

7. What can I serve with Chana Dal Tadka?

Chana Dal Tadka pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan, chapati, or even bread. It’s a versatile dish that complements various Indian bread and rice preparations.

7. What can I serve with Chana Dal Tadka?

Chana Dal Tadka pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan, chapati, or even bread. It’s a versatile dish that complements various Indian bread and rice preparations.

8. Can I add vegetables to Chana Dal Tadka?

Yes, you can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, or spinach during the tempering process. However, the classic recipe focuses on the simplicity of chana dal and the flavorful tadka.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully prepared an authentic and delectable Chana Dal Tadka, a dish that will undoubtedly leave you and your loved ones craving for more. The blend of spices, the creamy texture of chana dal, and the aromatic tadka make this recipe a true delight for your palate.