Best Easy Dal Bukhara Recipe

Dal Bukhara brings together lentils and traditional Indian spices for a comforting, protein-packed meal. This affordable vegetarian dish is a healthy family favorite that fits into any calorie-conscious plan.

Cook 130 min Difficulty NORMAL 310 kcal
#vegetarian #high protein #mediterranean #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole black lentils (urad dal) 1 cup
  • red kidney beans 2 tbsp
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • heavy cream 2 tbsp
  • yellow onion, finely chopped 1 pieces
  • tomato, chopped 2 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • ginger-garlic paste 2 tsp
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • coriander powder 1 tsp
  • red chili powder 1 tsp
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 49%
Protein 14 g 18%
Fat 10 g 33%
Serving size 260g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the black lentils and kidney beans, then soak them overnight in plenty of cold water to ensure even cooking and creamy texture.

  2. 2

    Drain and transfer the soaked legumes to a large pot. Add 4 cups water and simmer gently, covered, for 1.5 hours until very tender. Skim foam as needed.

  3. 3

    In a separate heavy pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle, then add onions. Sauté until golden brown for a deeper flavor.

  4. 4

    Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until aromatic. Add tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and half the salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring, until tomatoes break down completely.

  5. 5

    Add cooked lentils and beans along with their cooking water. Mix well and let simmer on very low heat for another 1.5 hours, partially covered. Stir often to prevent sticking and encourage a creamy consistency.

  6. 6

    Finish by adding remaining salt, garam masala, 1 tbsp butter, and heavy cream. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, adjusting consistency with a splash of hot water if too thick. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cream or cilantro if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Dal Bukhara recipe?
The defining ingredient in Dal Bukhara is whole black lentils (urad dal). Their rich, creamy texture and deep flavor, combined with kidney beans, create the signature foundation of this classic dish.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest difference in flavor?
Garam masala, added towards the end, stands out as the seasoning that brings warmth and depth. Along with cumin seeds and ginger-garlic paste, it forms the backbone of Dal Bukhara's aromatic profile.
Q. What’s the most important step for creamy texture in Dal Bukhara?
Slow simmering the soaked beans and lentils for over 2 hours is crucial for breakdown and creaminess. Frequent stirring during the final simmer prevents sticking and ensures a luxurious, thick texture without burning.
Q. How many calories are in one serving and is it high in protein?
Each 260g serving contains about 310 kcal and a substantial 14g protein, representing 18% of its calories. This makes it a balanced and protein-rich vegetarian option suitable for various meal plans.
Q. Can this recipe fit into a diabetic-friendly plan?
Yes. With 38g carbohydrates per serving, moderate fat, and a hearty protein content, this Dal Bukhara is crafted without highly processed sugars or flours, making it a good fit for balanced, diabetic-friendly meals.
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