Coconut Channa Dal Recipe

Discover the creamy, dreamy Coconut Channa Dal! This incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make recipe features channa dal (split Bengal gram), a popular Indian lentil with a subtly sweet and nutty taste and a low glycemic index. Perfect as a side dish, this mild dal pairs wonderfully with lemon rice (recipe #84304) or your favorite Indian meal. We use fresh or frozen curry leaves for the most vibrant flavor – don't settle for dried! Get ready for a taste of India in under an hour.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 560.9 kcal
Protein 36g
Rating 4.0 (2 Reviews)
Coconut Channa Dal 23

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Coconut Channa Dal

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How to Make Coconut Channa Dal

  1. Rinse 1 cup channa dal thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed channa dal, 3 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the dal is tender and easily mashed.
  4. While the dal simmers, heat 2 tablespoons coconut oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter for a minute.
  5. Add 10-12 fresh or frozen curry leaves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in 1/2 cup grated fresh coconut and 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional). Sauté for another minute.
  7. Gently mash a portion of the cooked dal with a spoon or potato masher to create a slightly creamy texture. You can leave some dal whole for a varied texture.
  8. Pour the coconut-curry leaf mixture into the cooked dal. Stir well to combine.
  9. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional) before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

65g

Fat

89g

Carbs

20g