Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs skinless chicken , and jointed
1 teaspoon salt
1 inch cube fresh ginger , grated
6 garlic cloves , chopped
1 teaspoon coriander seed
1 teaspoon cumin seed
1 teaspoon fennel seed
4 green cardamoms
2 inches cinnamon sticks , broken into pieces
6 dried red chilies
10 peppercorns
2 bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds
6 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons ghee
4 ounces water
3 ounces yellow split peas
3 ounces red lentils
5 tablespoons oil
1 large onion , chopped
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
20 ounces warm water
1 teaspoon tamarind paste
1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves , chopped
Chicken Dhansak is a traditional Indian dish that originated among the Parsi community. Its origins are said to be from the Iranian region and it is usually eaten with rice or bread. This recipe has a combination of spices and legumes that give it a characteristic flavor that is difficult to find in any other recipe. It is a dish that is usually prepared for special occasions, and it is also a dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The lentils used in this recipe are rich in protein, and thus, an excellent source of vegetarian protein for people who do not consume meat. You will love how this dish smells and tastes due to the unique combination of spices, which is not overwhelming and delicately balanced. Cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and coriander seeds add to its flavor and aroma, while the turmeric gives it a pleasant color. This dish is truly a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort.

Instructions

1.Rinse the split peas and lentils in cold water before boiling them for 25-30 minutes. Drain and keep them aside.
2.In a pan, dry roast cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cardamoms, cinnamon sticks, dried red chillies, peppercorns, bay leaves, fenugreek seeds and mustard seeds. Grind them until the mixture resembles a powder. Mix water well and strain the mixture in a bowl.
3.In a pan, add ghee to heat. Sauté ginger and garlic in the pan until it turns light brown. Add onion and fry until it turns golden.
4.Add salt, turmeric, garam masala and the spice powder mixture from step 2. Mix the chicken to coat it in the spices.
5.Once well mixed, add 20 ounces of water to the pan with the chicken. Let it boil, and then turn it down to medium heat to let it simmer. Cover it and let it cook until tender. Add the cooked lentils and split peas to the chicken mixture.
6.Add tamarind paste and stir well. Let it cook for a few more minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves and enjoy!

PROS

Chicken Dhansak is incredibly flavorful and aromatic.
It’s a great dish to serve for a family dinner or to entertain guests.
This dish is packed with protein and fiber, which will keep you full for a long time.
The combination of legumes and spices make it an immune-boosting meal.

CONS

This dish requires a lot of preparation and cooking time, so be prepared to spend some time in the kitchen.
It can be a challenge to get some of the ingredients, depending on where you live.
It might be too spicy for some people, so reduce the red chillies if you don’t like spicy food.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken Dhansak contains yellow split peas and red lentils, which are both high in fiber. This will aid in digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied. The spices in this dish contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. The ginger and garlic in this dish have been shown to help boost the immune system.

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