Amritsari Dal Veg Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Amritsari dal is a beloved dish hailing from the vibrant culinary traditions of Punjab, India. Known for its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish brings together the earthy goodness of lentils with a blend of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this Amritsari dal veg recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a nutritious, comforting meal that bursts with taste.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essentials to make this classic recipe at home, including the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions. You’ll also discover tips to customize the dish to your liking and learn how to serve it in the most delightful ways.

Plus, if you love exploring Indian flavors, don’t miss our other recipes like the Bok Choy Indian Recipe for a fresh twist or the hearty Bread And Gravy Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Amritsari dal veg is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Punjabi home-cooking that combines simplicity with robust flavors. This recipe is:

• Nutritious and wholesome: Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and healthy.
• Flavorful: The perfect blend of spices, tomatoes, and fresh vegetables awakens your palate.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common pantry ingredients, it’s great for everyday meals.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste.

This dal pairs beautifully with rice, roti, or even naan, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole yellow moong dal (split yellow gram), washed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or any cooking oil)
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) (optional)

Equipment

• Pressure cooker or large pot
• Frying pan or kadhai
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Bowl for soaking dal

Instructions

1. Prepare the dal: Rinse the moong dal thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
2. Cook the dal: Drain the soaked dal and add it to a pressure cooker with 4 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is soft and mushy. If using a pot, simmer covered until tender (about 45-50 minutes), adding water as needed.
3. Heat the oil: In a frying pan or kadhai, heat mustard oil over medium heat until it starts to smoke slightly (this removes its raw flavor).
4. Tempering: Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
5. Add aromatics: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook until the raw smell disappears, about 2 minutes.
6. Cook vegetables: Add chopped tomatoes, carrots, and green peas. Cook until tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate from the mixture, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Spice it up: Add red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Mix well and cook the masala for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Combine dal and masala: Pour the cooked dal into the pan with the vegetable masala. Stir well and add water if needed to adjust consistency. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
9. Finish with garam masala and kasuri methi: Sprinkle garam masala and dried fenugreek leaves if using. Stir gently and cook for another 2 minutes.
10. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish the dal with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier texture, mash some of the dal with the back of a spoon as it simmers.”

• You can substitute moong dal with toor dal (pigeon peas) for a different flavor profile.
• Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during tempering to aid digestion and enhance aroma.
• For an extra layer of flavor, top the dal with a drizzle of ghee before serving.
• Vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added to increase nutritional value and variety.
• Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Amritsari dal veg is best enjoyed hot with traditional Indian bread such as roti or naan. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.

For a richer experience, serve with a dollop of fresh yogurt or a side of tangy pickle (achar).

To complement the flavors, consider serving it alongside a fresh cucumber raita or a simple salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and lemon wedges. If you want to explore more Punjabi-inspired dishes, you might love the Bok Choy Indian Recipe or the comforting Bread And Gravy Recipe.

Conclusion

Amritsari dal veg is a heartwarming dish that beautifully captures the essence of Punjabi cuisine—simple, wholesome, and packed with layers of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and comforting texture.

By following the steps above, you’ll create a nourishing meal that’s perfect any day of the week. Plus, the recipe’s versatility allows you to tweak it based on your preferences, making it a delightful staple in your kitchen repertoire.

For more exciting recipes to try, check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe and Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your Amritsari dal veg!

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