Chana dal fry is a beloved Indian dish that perfectly balances nutrition and flavor. Made from split chickpeas, this recipe incorporates fresh vegetables and aromatic spices to create a wholesome, comforting meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this chana dal fry veg recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It’s not only a great source of protein and fiber but also a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with rice, roti, or even as a side to your favorite meals.
The addition of vegetables to the traditional dal fry adds a delightful texture and nutritional boost, making it an excellent choice for a healthy family dinner or meal prep. If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty yet light, packed with Indian flavors, and easy to whip up, this chana dal fry veg recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chana dal fry veg recipe is a perfect blend of taste, health, and simplicity. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich in Protein: Chana dal is a great plant-based protein source, ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of Indian spices and fresh vegetables creates a comforting and inviting dish.
- Nutritious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it supports digestion and overall health.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Quick and Easy: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Plus, this recipe complements many of your favorite meals and pairs well with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 green chilies, slit or chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Water as needed for cooking dal
Equipment
- Pressure cooker or large pot
- Frying pan or deep skillet
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Bowl for soaking dal
Instructions
- Soak the chana dal: Rinse the chana dal thoroughly under cold water until water runs clear. Soak in enough water for at least 30 minutes to soften.
- Cook the dal: Drain the soaked dal. In a pressure cooker, add the dal along with 2.5 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Pressure cook for about 3-4 whistles or until the dal is tender but not mushy. If using a pot, cook covered for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding water if needed.
- Prepare the tempering: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add aromatics: Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the diced carrot and green peas. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Incorporate tomatoes and spices: Add the chopped tomatoes along with turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes become soft and oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Mix dal and simmer: Pour the cooked dal into the pan with the vegetable masala. Stir well to combine. Adjust consistency by adding water if too thick. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Finish with garam masala: Sprinkle the garam masala and mix. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Tips & Variations
For a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during tempering.
- You can substitute or add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or potatoes to enhance the nutritional profile.
- Use mustard oil for a traditional North Indian flavor, or vegetable oil for a milder taste.
- To make it more protein-rich, combine chana dal with toor dal or moong dal in equal parts.
- Adjust the spice levels by reducing or increasing the green chilies and red chili powder as per your preference.
- For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the dal after cooking before mixing it with the vegetable masala.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 230 kcal |
Protein | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Vitamin A | 15% DV |
Vitamin C | 12% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chana dal fry veg recipe is wonderfully versatile. Serve it with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a comforting meal.
It also pairs perfectly with Indian breads such as roti, naan, or paratha.
For a complete meal, you can add a side of vegetarian swiss chard recipes or a fresh cucumber raita to cool the palate. Pairing it with a simple salad or a spiced vegetable stir-fry like those from Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals can also elevate your dining experience.
Conclusion
Chana dal fry with vegetables is a wholesome and delicious dish that brings together the best of Indian flavors and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
The combination of protein-rich dal and fresh vegetables ensures that every bite is both satisfying and nourishing.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and comforting texture. Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or try your hand at the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to keep your culinary adventures exciting and healthy.
📖 Recipe Card: Chana Dal Fry Veg Recipe
Description: A flavorful and nutritious Indian dish made with split chickpeas and mixed vegetables, tempered with aromatic spices. Perfect as a main or side dish, served with rice or roti.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and green chilies; sauté until onions turn golden.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt; cook until tomatoes soften.
- Drain soaked chana dal and add to the pan; mix well.
- Add diced carrots, green peas, and water; bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes or until dal is tender.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 40 g
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