Ingredients

200 -250 g lentils
3 tablespoons tamarind paste
1 medium onion ( sliced )
4 green chilies ( whole )
curry leaf ( few )
2 tablespoons national shahi daal mixed spice
4 red chilies ( whole )
1/2 teaspoon cumin seed ( whole )
4 -6 curry leaves
1/2 cup oil or 1/2 cup ghee
Shahi Daal and Tarka is a popular lentil dish in Pakistan, often served with rice or naan bread. The name 'Shahi' translates to 'royal', which is fitting for this flavorful and aromatic recipe. The dish originated from the Mughal Emperor's kitchen, where lentils were a staple ingredient. The lentil mixture is cooked with tamarind paste, which adds a sour and tangy flavor, while the tempered spices provide a smoky and spicy aroma. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and vegans who want to enjoy a nutritious and filling meal.

Instructions

1.Wash the lentils thoroughly and soak them for 2 hours.
2.Add the soaked lentils in a pan with 1 liter of water, onion, green chilies, curry leaves and tamarind paste and cook for 20-30 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
3.Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the red chilies, cumin seeds and curry leaves for a few seconds.
4.Add the national shahi daal spice mixture to the frying pan and stir for a few seconds.
5.Mix the tempered spices into the lentil pan and allow to cook for another 10 minutes.
6.Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

PROS

This dish is incredibly flavorful and packed with protein from the lentils.

The mixture of spices and tamarind paste creates a delicious balance of savory and sour flavors.

It is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly recipe.

CONS

It requires some preparation time, including soaking the lentils for two hours.

The frying process of the spices can create some smoke in the kitchen.

Some may find this dish too spicy due to the addition of green and red chilies.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Lentils contain iron, folate, and magnesium, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells, heart health, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Tamarind paste is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to reducing inflammation and improving digestive health.

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