Are you looking for a versatile ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than urad dal! Also known as split black gram, this nutritious legume is a staple in Indian cuisine and can be used to create a wide variety of delicious dishes. From traditional curries and stews to innovative snacks and desserts, urad dal is the perfect ingredient for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, our collection of 18 mouthwatering urad dal recipes has something for everyone. We’ve got classic comfort food like Dal Makhani and Khichdi, as well as more adventurous options like Medu Vada and Punjabi Dal Fry. And with desserts like Urad Dal Ladoo and Halwa, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition again.
In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of urad dal and share some of our favorite recipes that showcase its unique flavor and texture. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into a world of culinary possibilities!
Classic Dal Makhani
Classic Dal Makhani Recipe
Dal Makhani, a staple of North Indian cuisine, is a rich and creamy black lentil curry that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe yields a flavorful and velvety dal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and garam masala powder. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the lentils, tomato puree, and water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the dal to your desired consistency. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving.
6. Season with salt to taste, garnish with cilantro, and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Urad Dal Khichdi
Khichdi, a popular Indian dish, is a staple comfort food that warms the heart and soul. Urad dal khichdi, made with split black gram lentils and rice, is a variation of this classic recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups long-grain white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the lentils and add them to a pressure cooker with 4 cups of water. Cook until the lentils are mushy.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan, then add the cooked rice and stir well.
4. Add the cooked lentils to the rice mixture and mix thoroughly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped vegetables if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Medu Vada
A classic South Indian snack, Medu Vada is a crispy and savory vada (fried doughnut) made with rice flour and spices. Perfect for a quick breakfast or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the rice flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is soft and pliable.
3. Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add the vadas and fry until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Punjabi Dal Fry
This Punjabi Dal Fry recipe is a staple in North Indian cuisine, made with red lentils (masoor dal), onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice, roti, or naan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and blend the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the blended lentils mixture and stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Urad Dal Chutney
This traditional Indian recipe is a flavorful and spicy condiment made with urad dal, also known as black gram lentils. Urad Dal Chutney is a popular accompaniment to many Indian dishes, including dosas, idlis, and vadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (black gram lentils)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– 1-2 green chilies, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
– Cooking oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. Soak the urad dal in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the soaked urad dal into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and coriander leaves. Saute until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the ground urad dal paste to the pan and stir well.
5. Season with salt and green chilies (if using).
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chutney thickens to your liking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
South Indian Urad Dal Dosa
This classic South Indian dosa recipe is a staple in many households, made with the goodness of urad dal and rice. A perfect breakfast or snack option, this dosa is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1/4 teaspoon methi seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Soak the urad dal in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the urad dal into a smooth paste with 1/2 cup of water.
3. Mix the ground dal with cooked rice, methi seeds, asafoetida, and salt.
4. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
6. Pour a ladle of batter onto the pan and spread it evenly.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
8. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Urad Dal Paratha
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast by making Urad Dal Parathas, a popular Indian flatbread filled with the goodness of urad dal (black gram).
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain the water and grind the dal into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground urad dal, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable. Add water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Brush the paratha with ghee or oil and cook it on a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.
7. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of parathas)
Urad Dal Soup
A comforting and nourishing soup made with urad dal, a type of split black gram, this recipe is perfect for a chilly day or as a soothing accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 4 cups water
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the dal with 4 cups of water until soft and mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the mixture is lightly browned.
4. Add the cooked urad dal to the pan, along with salt and turmeric powder (if using). Stir well.
5. Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or a dollop of yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Kachori
Urad Dal Kachori is a popular Indian snack that combines the flavors of urad dal (split black gram) with spices and crispy bread. This recipe yields 4-6 kachoris, perfect for a quick bite or as an accompaniment to your favorite tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Spices: cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and chili powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Dry roast the urad dal until fragrant, then grind into a coarse paste.
2. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and ghee in a bowl. Add lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle. Place 1 tablespoon of urad dal paste at the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a circle. Seal the edges with water.
6. Fry the kachoris in hot oil until golden brown (3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Urad Dal Ladoo
Urad dal ladoo is a popular Indian sweet made with urad dal, also known as black gram lentils, and sugar. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a snack for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split urad dal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Dry roast the urad dal in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
2. Grind the roasted urad dal into a fine paste using a grinder or food processor.
3. Mix the sugar, cardamom powder, and salt with the ground urad dal.
4. Heat the ghee in a non-stick pan over low heat. Add the urad dal mixture and stir until it forms a dough-like consistency.
5. Shape into small balls (ladoos) and let them cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Store in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.
Urad Dal Pakora
A popular Indian snack, Urad Dal Pakora is a delightful fusion of urad dal (black gram) and spices, deep-fried to perfection. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful fritters that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the dal into a smooth paste using minimal water.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground dal, flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil.
7. Fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of chutney and garnished with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Urad Dal Halwa
A classic Indian dessert, Urad Dal Halwa is a creamy and sweet treat made with split black gram lentils, ghee, and sugar. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the dal with a little water to make a smooth paste.
3. Heat the ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the dal paste and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens and turns light brown (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add the sugar, cardamom powder, and 1 cup of water to the pan. Stir well and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the halwa reaches your desired consistency.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Idli
A traditional South Indian breakfast dish, Urad Dal Idli is a flavorful and nutritious treat made with fermented lentils and steamed rice. This recipe yields soft, fluffy idlis with a subtle dal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 teaspoon methi seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Baking soda, a pinch (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the dal into a smooth paste with 2 cups of fresh water.
3. Mix in the cooked rice, methi seeds, salt, and baking soda (if using).
4. Ferment the mixture in a warm place for 12-14 hours or overnight.
5. Once fermented, steam the idli mixture in a steamer or a pressure cooker with a steaming attachment for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve warm with sambar, chutney, and a dollop of ghee, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 hours (fermentation time) + 10-15 minutes (steaming)
Urad Dal Spinach Curry
This recipe combines the creamy texture of urad dal with the nutrient-rich goodness of spinach, creating a flavorful and healthy curry perfect for any meal. With its mild spices and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours. Drain and grind into a smooth paste.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Add the urad dal paste and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Urad Dal Stuffed Eggplant
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed eggplants, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of urad dal with the tender flesh of roasted eggplants.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup urad dal
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine urad dal, cilantro, lemon juice, ghee or oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.
5. Stuff each eggplant half with the urad dal mixture, dividing it evenly among the two.
6. If using green chilies, sprinkle them on top of the filling.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including roasting time)
Urad Dal Tomato Rasam
A comforting and flavorful South Indian-inspired soup that combines the creamy richness of urad dal with the tanginess of tomatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and turmeric powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes are fully cooked.
4. Add the soaked urad dal and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the dal is creamy and tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Urad Dal Coconut Curry
This creamy Urad Dal Coconut Curry is a popular Indian dish made with split black lentils, aromatic spices, and coconut milk. A comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black lentils)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the lentils and blend them with 1 cup of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the blended lentils and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the curry thickens.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Urad Dal Tadka
Urad dal tadka is a popular Indian lentil curry made with urad dal (black gram), aromatic spices, and a hint of garlic. This comforting dish is often served with steaming hot rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soaked urad dal and 2 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 delicious urad dal recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic Dal Makhani and Urad Dal Khichdi to innovative dishes like South Indian Urad Dal Dosa and Urad Dal Stuffed Eggplant, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for comforting bowls, crispy snacks, or sweet treats, these urad dal recipes are sure to please. Discover new ways to cook with this versatile lentil and elevate your mealtime game!
