Hyderabadi Khatti Dal Recipe
Khatti Dal, a staple in Hyderabadi cuisine, is a delightful lentil dish known for its tangy (khatti) flavor, achieved by adding tamarind juice or lemon juice. This dish is a perfect blend of creamy lentils, aromatic spices, and a tangy undertone that makes it irresistibly delicious. The use of tur dal (split pigeon peas) as the base gives the dal a thick, comforting texture, while the tanginess adds a refreshing contrast, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of zest in their meals.
The beauty of Khatti Dal lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavors it offers with every spoonful. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of traditional Hyderabadi flavors, brought to life through a symphony of spices, tamarind, and the earthiness of lentils. This dal is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Hyderabad, where food is an expression of culture and tradition. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive occasion, Khatti Dal is a comforting, flavorful, and nourishing choice that pleases every palate.
Ingredients for making Khatti Dal
- 1 cup tur dal (split pigeon peas), washed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 dry red chilies
- 8-10 curry leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely sliced
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 cup tamarind juice, adjust as per taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Step-wise Process
- Cook the Dal: In a pressure cooker, combine the soaked tur dal, water, turmeric powder, and salt. We need the dal to be soft and mushy – so cook for about 3-4 whistles. Once cooked, mash the dal lightly and set aside.
- Preparing the Tadka: In another pan, heat the ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add cumin seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Lightly sauté them for a few seconds until you can smell a slight aroma.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped garlic and sliced onions to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Add green chillies, chopped tomatoes and green chilies and cook until the tomatoes are cooked nicely and have become mushy.
- Combine Dal and Tadka: Add the red chili powder to the tadka and mix well. Then, pour this mixture into the cooked dal. Mix everything well.
- Add Tanginess: Stir in the tamarind juice into the dal. Adjust the quantity according to how tangy you want the dal to be. Bring the dal to a boil and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dal with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Number of Servings
- Serves 4-6 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes soaking time for dal)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Important Points
- Soaking the dal reduces cooking time and ensures a creamier texture.
- Adjust the amount of tamarind juice according to your taste preference for tanginess.
- The consistency of the dal can be adjusted by adding more or less water, depending on whether you prefer it thick or slightly thin.
- Always taste the dal before serving to adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Khatti Dal is best served hot with steamed rice or rotis. It pairs well with a side of crispy papad, pickle, and a simple vegetable stir-fry or salad for a complete, nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
Khatti Dal is a quintessential example of how simple ingredients can be turned into a dish full of flavor and character. Its tangy taste, combined with the comforting texture of lentils, makes it a beloved choice across households. This recipe not only offers a taste of Hyderabad’s rich culinary heritage but also provides a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro, Khatti Dal is a recipe that promises warmth, nourishment, and a burst of flavors in every bite.
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