Kashmiri Chana Dal Recipe

Kashmiri Chana Dal is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with split chickpeas and a blend of spices.

Here is a recipe you can try at home:

Ingredients:

1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
2 cups water
1 tablespoon ghee or oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (optional)
1 cup tomato puree
1 cup water
Salt, to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chana dal and soak it in water for at least 1 hour.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the onion, ginger, garlic, and green chili (if using) to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
5. Add the tomato puree and 1 cup of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add the soaked and drained chana dal to the pan. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer until the dal is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 30-40 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with rice or flatbread.