The flavorful world of dal bhat! For those who are new to this popular Nepali dish, dal bhat is a simple yet satisfying meal consisting of lentils (dal) served over rice (bhat). But for those who have grown up with it, dal bhat is so much more – it’s a comforting ritual that brings people together. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner, dal bhat has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different dal bhat recipes from across the Indian subcontinent. From classic Nepali recipes to spicy Punjabi twists, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility of dal bhat. With flavors ranging from mild and creamy to bold and spicy, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
So, let’s get started on this culinary journey and explore the wonderful world of dal bhat!
Classic Nepali Dal Bhat with Turmeric Lentils
A staple dish in Nepalese cuisine, this flavorful dal bhat (lentil and rice) is a comforting meal that’s easy to make. This recipe uses turmeric lentils for an extra boost of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked lentils, turmeric, and salt. Pour in enough water to cover the lentils by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve the dal over cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Masoor Dal Bhat with Ghee Tempering
A comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish from North India, Spicy Masoor Dal Bhat is a perfect combination of spicy lentil soup, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor and aroma with the addition of ghee tempering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Vegetable of choice (e.g., carrots, peas, cauliflower), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until the onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add cooked dal and 1 cup of water. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the dal thickens slightly.
5. To temper ghee, heat it in a small pan over medium heat. Add a pinch of cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
6. Serve the dal over cooked rice, garnished with cilantro and vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlicky Toor Dal Bhat with Cumin Tadka
Toor dal, a type of lentil, is cooked with aromatic spices and garlic to create a rich and creamy dish. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice and a sprinkle of cumin tadka for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split yellow pigeon peas (toor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the toor dal and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked.
5. Stir in salt and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mixed Lentil Dal Bhat with Himalayan Herbs
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the earthy essence of Himalayan herbs. This recipe is a staple in Nepalese cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a nourishing breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed lentils (red, yellow, green)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan herb blend (such as timur, ginger, and cardamom)
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse lentils and soak in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and Himalayan herb blend. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Drain and add lentils to the saucepan. Pour in water, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Moong Dal Bhat with Mustard Seeds
Moong dal bhat is a popular breakfast dish in India, made with split moong lentils and a flavorful blend of spices. This creamy version adds a rich and comforting twist to the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split moong dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and blend the dal with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the mustard seeds and ground cumin to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the blended dal mixture and season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer the bhat for 10-15 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tadka Dal Bhat with Fried Onions and Chilies
A classic Indian comfort food, Tadka Dal Bhat is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the creamy goodness of dal (lentils) with the crunch of fried onions and chilies. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Fried onions and chilies (see below)
Fried Onions and Chilies:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2-3 green chilies, sliced
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ground coriander. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the lentils, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked.
5. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the sliced onion and green chilies until crispy.
6. Serve the Tadka Dal Bhat with the fried onions and chilies on top.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Vegetable-loaded Dal Bhat with Seasonal Greens
This comforting Nepalese-inspired dish combines the flavors of India and Tibet with a medley of seasonal greens, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed seasonal greens (such as spinach, kale, collard greens)
– 1 medium-sized carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons cumin powder or ground coriander for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Add the mixed greens, carrot, and cooked lentils to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and optional cumin powder or coriander. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice (bhat) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato-infused Dal Bhat with Coriander Garnish
This classic Nepalese dish gets a flavorful twist by infusing the dal (lentil soup) with ripe tomatoes. The result is a comforting, aromatic meal that pairs perfectly with steaming hot basmati rice and garam masala-spiced potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and pressure cook the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until they are tender.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, and salt. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the cooked lentils and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot with basmati rice and garam masala-spiced potatoes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Punjabi-style Dal Bhat with Butter and Cream
Experience the rich flavors of Punjab with this comforting dish, a staple in North Indian cuisine. This recipe combines creamy dal (lentil soup) with flavorful bhat (rice), finished with a dollop of butter and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice (bhat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure-cook the lentils with 2 cups of water until tender. Mash slightly.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
4. Add cumin, coriander, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the cooked lentils and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Serve over warm rice (bhat). Top with butter, cream, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Smoky Urad Dal Bhat with Charred Onions
Savor the comforting flavors of North Indian cuisine with this smoky urad dal recipe, served with fluffy basmati rice and caramelized onions. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
– Basmati rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. In a separate pot, combine the urad dal, water, cumin, coriander, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is creamy.
3. Serve the smoky urad dal over fluffy basmati rice, accompanied by the charred onions.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Dal Bhat with Asafoetida and Ginger
This classic Nepalese recipe is a staple in many Himalayan households, and for good reason – the combination of flavorful spices, comforting dal (lentil soup), and fluffy bhat (rice) is a match made in heaven. This version adds the pungency of asafoetida and the warmth of ginger for an extra layer of depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split yellow lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, and asafoetida powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the lentils and 2 cups water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bihari-style Chana Dal Bhat with Spices
Experience the flavors of Bihar with this hearty and aromatic dish, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines chana dal (split chickpeas) with flavorful spices and served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split chickpeas (chana dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chana dal and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the chana dal with 2 cups of fresh water until tender.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add cooked chana dal to the spice mixture and stir well.
5. Serve the chana dal over cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kashmiri Dal Bhat with Saffron and Dry Fruits
Experience the rich flavors of Kashmiri cuisine with this aromatic and flavorful dal bhat recipe, infused with saffron and dry fruits.
Ingredients:
For the dal:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
For the bhat (rice):
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
For garnish:
– Saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Chopped dry fruits (almonds, cashews, and pistachios)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils with 4 cups of water until they are soft. Drain excess water.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and sauté the onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cooked lentils to the pan and stir well. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
5. Garnish the dal with soaked saffron threads, chopped dry fruits, and fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time:
– Dal: 20-25 minutes
– Bhat: 15-20 minutes
South Indian-style Dal Bhat with Coconut Milk
A comforting and flavorful one-pot meal from the southern region of India, this Dal Bhat recipe combines split red lentils (toor dal) with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and steamed rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (toor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and pressure cook the lentils with 4 cups of fresh water until they are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a pan, sauté onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked lentils to the pan, along with salt and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve the dal over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Pressure Cooker Dal Bhat for Busy Days
Need a comforting meal that’s ready in no time? This Quick Pressure Cooker Dal Bhat recipe is perfect for busy days when you’re short on time, but still want to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll have a delicious and filling dal bhat on the table in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat or brown rice chapatis
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and pressure cook the lentils with 2 cups of water for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender.
3. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onion, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add cooked lentils to the pan and stir well.
5. Warm chapatis according to package instructions.
6. Serve dal over chapatis, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Protein-packed Dal Bhat with Quinoa and Lentils
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of quinoa and lentils with the flavor of traditional Indian dal bhat, making it a protein-packed meal for those looking to boost their energy levels.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed and drained
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: ghee or oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add lentils, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve quinoa topped with dal bhat, garnished with optional ghee or oil.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Dal Bhat with Cashew Cream and Herbs
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this comforting vegan version of dal bhat, a popular dish from Nepal and India. This recipe combines creamy cashew sauce with aromatic spices and fresh herbs to create a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soaked cashews
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine cashews, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Heat the blended mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the soaked lentils to the saucepan with the cashew cream. Stir well and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Festival-style Dal Bhat with Special Tempering
A classic Nepalese dish, Dal Bhat is a staple at festivals and celebrations. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor with special tempering, making it perfect for your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for tempering
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the lentils and blend them with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the blended dal mixture and stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the desired consistency is reached.
7. For special tempering, heat ghee or oil in a small pan over low heat. Add 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
8. Pour the tempering mixture into the dal and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Enjoy your flavorful Festival-Style Dal Bhat with Special Tempering!
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of India’s beloved comfort food, dal bhat! This article presents 18 authentic and flavorful recipes to tantalize your taste buds. From classic Nepali dal bhat to Punjabi-style and South Indian-inspired variations, each recipe features a unique blend of spices and ingredients. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan, or protein-packed options, these dal bhat recipes cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Explore the world of lentils and rice with this comprehensive collection and elevate your mealtime experience!
