Best Easy Maa Ki Dal Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Maa Ki Dal, a classic Indian preparation with rich, layered flavors. This traditional dish is perfect for family meals and brings regional Indian culinary heritage to your table.

Cook 85 min Difficulty NORMAL 310 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #diabetic friendly #high protein
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole black gram (urad dal) 1 cup
  • red kidney beans 2 tbsp
  • unsalted butter 3 tbsp
  • yellow onion 1 medium
  • tomato 2 medium
  • garlic 4 cloves
  • fresh ginger 1 tbsp
  • water 3 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1.5 tsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • ground coriander 1 tsp
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • red chili powder 0.5 tsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 49%
Protein 15 g 19%
Fat 10 g 32%
Serving size 240g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the whole black gram and kidney beans thoroughly. Soak them in enough water overnight, or for at least 8 hours for best texture.

  2. 2

    Drain and transfer the soaked lentils and beans to a pot with 3 cups fresh water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 60–70 minutes until soft.

  3. 3

    While the dal is simmering, heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 6 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic and ginger to the onions, stir for 1 minute, then add chopped tomatoes. Cook on medium until the tomatoes break down and the mixture turns glossy.

  5. 5

    Stir in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Sauté for another 2 minutes, then add the cooked dal along with its cooking water. Mix thoroughly and simmer on low heat, uncovered, for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop a creamy consistency.

  6. 6

    Finish by adding garam masala, fenugreek leaves, and 1 tbsp butter. Let simmer for another 5 minutes on lowest heat, stirring to prevent sticking. Serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Maa Ki Dal recipe?
The key ingredient in this recipe is whole black gram (urad dal). Its earthy flavor and creamy texture are central to Maa Ki Dal, giving the dish its rich, comforting personality. Red kidney beans act as a traditional supporting legume, but urad dal truly defines the dish’s depth and authenticity.
Q. What is the most important cooking technique for achieving the right consistency?
The most important technique is long, slow simmering on low heat after the initial boil. This helps break down the lentils for a naturally creamy texture without over-thickening or burning. Stirring occasionally and controlling the heat in the final simmer ensures the dal develops depth and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Q. How can I avoid overcooking or undercooking the legumes in this recipe?
Soaking the dal and kidney beans overnight is essential for even cooking. Boil them until very soft but intact before adding to the masala; check by pressing a bean between your fingers. Simmer the combined dal gently—if the heat is too high, it may scorch or separate, but too low may leave it watery and undercooked.
Q. What is the calorie and nutrition profile per serving?
Each serving (240g) contains approximately 310 kcal, with 38g carbohydrates (49% of calories), 15g protein (19%), and 10g fat (32%). This offers a balanced profile and a good amount of plant protein in every bowl of Maa Ki Dal.
AI 채팅 아이콘