Bengali Special Cholar Dal (Chana Dal) Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Wash and soak the chana dal for 30 minutes.
• STEP 2.Pressure cook the dal with water, turmeric powder, and salt until soft.
• STEP 3.Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and dry red chilies.
• STEP 4.Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
• STEP 5.Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
• STEP 6.Add tomato puree, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
• STEP 7.Cook the masala until the oil separates from the sides.
• STEP 8.Add the cooked dal to the masala and mix well.
• STEP 9.Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors blend together.
• STEP 10.Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.

Cooking Tips

• Soaking the dal helps in reducing the cooking time.
• You can adjust the spice levels according to your taste.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a dollop of ghee before serving.

Storage and Serving

• Leftover cholar dal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the dal on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Serve the cholar dal hot with steamed rice or roti for a complete meal.