Description
Dal Makhani is a rich, creamy North Indian lentil curry made with black lentils and kidney beans, simmered with spices, tomatoes, and a touch of plant-based cream. This vegan version retains the traditional taste while being dairy-free and healthier.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black lentils (urad dal)
- 1/4 cup dried kidney beans (rajma)
- 1 tablespoon oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup plant-based cream (e.g., coconut cream or soy cream)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the black lentils and kidney beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse.
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add cumin, garam masala, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the soaked lentils and kidney beans to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the lentils and beans are soft.
- Stir in the plant-based cream and simmer for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Soaking the beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- You can use an Instant Pot or pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process.
- For a richer flavor, let the dal simmer longer on low heat.
- Serve with rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
