Bengali Dal Recipe

Discover this subtly spiced Bengali Dal, a light and flavorful soup perfect for a comforting meal. Unlike traditional thicker dals, this recipe yields a delicate broth, brimming with the warmth of aromatic spices. Easily customizable to your spice preference, it's a delicious and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. This recipe's origins are unknown – if you recognize it, please share!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 147.1 kcal
Protein 16g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Bengali Dal

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bengali Dal

  • Mung Dal
  • 6 cups water
  • Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon mustard oil
  • Fenugreek Seeds
  • 1 teaspoon mango powder (amchur)
  • Ground Coriander
  • Onion Powder
  • Garlic Powder
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

How to Make Bengali Dal

  1. Rinse 1 cup moong dal (split yellow lentils) under cold water.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed moong dal, 6 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1 tablespoon mustard oil.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the dal is tender but not mushy.
  5. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek powder, 1 teaspoon mango powder (amchur), 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste), and 1/2 teaspoon garam masala.
  6. Continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, cayenne pepper, or other spices to your preference.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

24 g

Sugar

2g

Fat

2g

Carbs

6g