Are you craving a comforting, healthy, and incredibly flavorful vegetarian meal? Look no further than this Chana Dal Dudhi recipe! This simple yet delicious Indian dish combines the creamy texture of chana dal (split chickpeas) with the subtle sweetness of dudhi (bottle gourd). It's a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. This quick dinner idea is packed with nutrients and is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas), rinsed
- 1 medium bottle gourd (dudhi), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) – optional, but adds great flavor
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup water or more as needed
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil or ghee in a pressure cooker or a deep pot over medium heat. Add the asafoetida (if using), cumin seeds, and finely chopped onions. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and lightly golden. Add the green chilies, ginger, and garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Spices and Vegetables
Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and cumin powder. Sauté for 30 seconds, ensuring the spices are well combined and fragrant. Add the cubed bottle gourd and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly soften.
Step 3: Pressure Cook the Dal
Add the rinsed chana dal, salt, and water to the pot. Mix well. Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on high heat for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is completely cooked and soft. If using a regular pot, cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dal is tender, adding more water if necessary.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the pressure is released, gently mash some of the dal with a spoon or potato masher to create a slightly creamy texture. You can adjust the consistency to your preference – leave it completely chunky or mash it thoroughly for a smoother dal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, rice, or naan.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a teaspoon of garam masala along with the other spices.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or less green chilies and red chili powder according to your taste.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or peas along with the bottle gourd.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of coconut milk at the end for extra creaminess.
- Tadka (Tempering): For an extra layer of flavor, prepare a tadka by heating a teaspoon of ghee or oil with a pinch of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves before adding it to the finished dal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving will contain a moderate amount of calories, carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, with relatively low fat.
This Chana Dal Dudhi recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Enjoy this delightful taste of homemade cooking!