Restaurant-Style Dal Makhani: Punjabi Recipe For A Creamy Serving

By Garima Johar

August 6, 2026

Dal makhani is a Punjabi staple that is one of the most frequently ordered dish at a North Indian restaurant. To get that classic balance of spicy and creamy, follow this authentic recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup urad dal 1 cup rajma 4 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons ghee 1 onion 4 cloves of garlic 1-inch ginger 2 tomatoes 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 2 teaspoons coriander powder 1 teaspoon red chilli powder 1 teaspoon kasoori methi 1 cup cream Salt to taste

Step 1

Soak urad dal and rajma overnight.

Step 2

Pressure cook the soaked lentils with water, salt, green cardamoms, cloves, and bay leaf.

Step 3

Heat ghee and butter and saute onions, ginger, and garlic. Add pureed tomatoes.

Step 4

Stir in garam masala, cumin seeds, coriander, red chilli powder, and kasoori methi.

Step 5

Add the dal to the prepared masala. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add butter, cream, and salt.

Step 6

Garnish with fresh cream and a sprinkle of kasoori methi. Serve hot.