Chana Dal Recipe Pakistani

A common element in Indian/Pakistan cuisine is chana dal. It has a creamy, nutty taste. Because it contains fiber, plant-based protein, and key minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium, it is healthy for you. Additionally, it contains vitamins B6 and folate. Many Indian/Pakistani recipes, including soups, curries, stews, and even desserts, use it. To prepare wonderful and wholesome meals, you can cook them on their own or combine them with meat and vegetables.

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Chana dal is utilized in cooking as well as traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its potential health advantages. It is thought to aid with digestion, weight loss, and blood sugar regulation. Chana dal is a well-liked ingredient in Indian/Pakistani cuisine because it gives a superb combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition whether you eat it as a dal, a fiery curry, or as a crunchy snack.

Here’s a simple recipe for chana dal

Ingredients

• 1 cup of split chickpea lentils (chana dal)
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, sliced lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder (modify to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons of clarified butter (ghee) or oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse the chana dal thoroughly under running water and soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water and set it aside.
2. In a strainer or a large pot, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Cumin seeds should be added and allowed to sizzle.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and green chilies to the pot and sauté until the onions become golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and diced tomatoes. The tomatoes should be thoroughly cooked and tender.
6. Add the soaked and drained chana dal to the pot along with 2 cups of water.
7. Mix well, cover the pressure cooker, and cook on medium heat for about 4-5 whistles, or until the dal is cooked and tender. If using a regular pot, simmer the dal until it’s tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed.
8. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and check the consistency of the dal. If it’s too thick, add water and adjust the consistency to your liking.
9. Add garam masala and mix well. Simmer the dal for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
10. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. Serve hot with rice, roti (Indian bread), or naan. Enjoy!

Health Benefits of Chana Dal

The benefits of chana dal are numerous for your health. It’s packed with plant-based protein, which promotes general growth and muscular development. Additionally, it’s high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and shields against stomach issues like constipation and IBS.

Chana dal is a fantastic option if you’re concerned about your blood sugar levels because it releases glucose gradually, which is helpful for those with diabetes. It acts as a consistent energy supply and lowers blood sugar levels.

Important elements like iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6 are abundant in chana dal. While magnesium and potassium keep your heart healthy and your blood pressure under control, iron helps your body transport oxygen. You get more energy and improved brain function from vitamin B6.

Chana dal can be beneficial if you’re trying to lose weight because it keeps you fuller for longer, causing you to consume fewer calories. Additionally, by lowering inflammation and avoiding heart disease, it’s healthy for your heart. Don’t forget about your bones either; chana dal has calcium and phosphorus that can keep them healthy and stop issues like osteoporosis. Therefore, it’s beneficial for your entire body in addition to being delicious.