chana dal recipe | vegan recipes | kadale bele dal
Vegan chana dal is a nutritious and protein-rich dish made from split chickpeas. It is cooked with onions, tomatoes,garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander seeds powder/dania powder. Instead of ghee, plant-based oils such as coconut or peanut oil are used for tempering. Some variations include adding vegetables like spinach or bottle gourd for extra flavor and nutrition. This hearty dal pairs well with rice or roti, making it a comforting and wholesome meal. A squeeze of lemon and fresh coriander enhance its taste, making it both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup kadale bele/chana dal
• wash and soak the dal in a cup of water for 3 to 4 hours
• 1 tbsp hesaru bele / moong dal
• 1 tsp menthya/fenugreek seeds
• 1 medium size onion
• 2 tomatoes
• 3 green chilies

For seasoning:

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp jeera / cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp jeera powder
• 1/4 tsp pepper powder
• 1/4 tsp red chilli powder
• 1 red chilli
• 2 pinches of hing
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 inch fresh ginger(grated)
• chopped coriander leaves
• few curry leaves
• 1 tsp salt or salt to taste
• juice of lime/lemon
• 2 cups of water

Method:

1. Pressure cook the soaked chana dal along with its water, washed moong dal, and methi seeds.
2. Add ½ cup more water, ¼ tsp turmeric powder, and keep the chopped onion, tomato, and extra methi seeds ready in a bowl as shown.
3. Pressure cook on medium heat for 3 to 4 whistles, then turn off the heat.

To prepare the dal:

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan on medium heat. Add mustard seeds, and once they pop, add jeera and hing.
2. Add the prepared onion, tomato, and methi seeds one by one. Sauté until softened and the raw smell disappears.
3. Add the cooked dal, salt, and mix well.
4. Add water as needed to adjust the consistency of the dal.
5. Let it simmer on low heat for 6 to 8 minutes .
6. Turn off the heat and add chopped coriander leaves and lime juice. Mix well.

Serving suggestion:

1. Serve hot with chapati, rotti, or rice