Best Easy Dal Amritsari Recipe

Dal Amritsari 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 65 min Difficulty NORMAL 285 kcal
#vegetarian #high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • split black gram (urad dal) 1 cup
  • split bengal gram (chana dal) 0.25 cup
  • tomato 2 pieces
  • onion 1 medium
  • ginger 1 inch piece
  • garlic 3 cloves
  • water 4 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • ghee or vegetable oil 2 tbsp
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • red chili powder 0.5 tsp
  • ground coriander 1 tsp
  • garam masala 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 53%
Protein 14 g 20%
Fat 7 g 27%
Serving size 250g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the split black gram and bengal gram thoroughly, then soak in enough water for at least 1 hour to ensure even cooking.

  2. 2

    Drain the lentils and add them to a large heavy-bottomed pot with 4 cups fresh water, turmeric, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer, skimming foam, for 30–35 minutes until the lentils are soft and breaking apart.

  3. 3

    While the lentils simmer, finely chop onions, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic for even sautéing later.

  4. 4

    In a separate skillet, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle for 20 seconds, then add onions. Sauté until golden brown, stirring regularly to prevent burning.

  5. 5

    Stir in ginger and garlic, cook for 1 minute, then add tomatoes, chili powder, ground coriander, and garam masala. Sauté over medium heat until tomatoes break down and spices are fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

  6. 6

    Transfer the sautéed spice mixture to the simmered lentils. Stir well, and cook uncovered over low heat for 10 more minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt if needed.

  7. 7

    Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Keep the dal slightly loose in consistency to prevent it from thickening too much as it cools.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Dal Amritsari recipe?
The main ingredient that defines Dal Amritsari is the split black gram (urad dal). Combined with split bengal gram (chana dal), it creates a creamy texture and provides a hearty source of protein and fiber, giving the dish its classic comforting taste and identity.
Q. What cooking step is most important for flavor?
The crucial flavor-building step is sautéing cumin seeds in hot ghee or oil until they crackle, then browning onions and cooking the spice-tomato mixture until fragrant. This process unlocks the spices’ full aroma and infuses the dal with deep, authentic flavor.
Q. How can I ensure the lentils are perfectly cooked without becoming mushy?
Soaking the lentils first and simmering them gently ensures even cooking and prevents them from turning mushy. Skim any foam that forms, and stop simmering once the lentils are tender but not falling apart. Stirring in the spice mixture at the end preserves their texture.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving of this recipe?
Each 250g serving contains about 285 kcal and provides 14g of protein, making this dish a balanced choice for those seeking plant-based, protein-rich meals.
Q. What is the carbohydrate vs. protein ratio in Dal Amritsari?
In each serving, carbohydrates provide 38g (53% of calories) while protein delivers 14g (20% of calories), giving a favorable nutritional balance especially important for vegetarian and calorie-conscious diets.
AI 채팅 아이콘