Langar Wali Dal
Langar Wali Dal is a heartwarming, nutritious, and soulful dish that holds a special place in Punjabi cuisine and culture. Traditionally served in the communal kitchens of Sikh Gurudwaras (Langar), this dal embodies the spirit of sharing and community. It’s a simple yet richly flavored preparation that combines whole black lentils (urad dal) and split chickpeas (chana dal) in a creamy, slow-cooked curry. The dal is known for its velvety texture and comforting taste, seasoned with a generous amount of ghee, spices, and often finished with cream.
The beauty of Langar Wali Dal lies not just in its taste but in the philosophy it represents – equality and oneness among all. Cooking this dal at home brings a piece of this tradition into your kitchen, offering a meal that’s as nourishing for the body as it is for the soul. Its preparation is straightforward but requires patience and love, reminiscent of the way it’s made in the Gurudwaras, where it’s cooked in large pots over slow fires to achieve its characteristic depth of flavor and heartiness.
Ingredients Required:
- 1 cup split black lentils (urad dal)
- 1/2 cup split chickpeas (chana dal)
- Water for soaking and cooking
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- 2 tablespoons cream for garnishing (optional)
Step-wise Process:
- Rinse both the urad dal and chana dal thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the lentils in enough water for at least 2 hours or overnight to soften them.
- Drain the soaking water and transfer the lentils to a pressure cooker. Add fresh water (about 3-4 cups) and salt. Cook under pressure for about 8-10 whistles or until both dals are completely soft and mushy.
- Once the pressure releases naturally, open the cooker and check the consistency of the dal. If it’s too thick, add a little water and adjust the salt as per taste. Mash some of the dal gently with the back of a spoon to get a creamier texture.
- Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sautéing until the raw aroma disappears.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate.
- Pour this tempering over the cooked dal. Mix well and bring the dal to a boil. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Finish the dal by sprinkling garam masala and garnishing with fresh coriander leaves. For a richer taste, swirl in some cream before serving.
Number of Servings:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time:
- Prep time: 2 hours or overnight for soaking + 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 3 hours or overnight + 1 hour
Important Points to Keep in Mind:
- Soaking the lentils reduces cooking time and helps achieve a smoother texture.
- The consistency of Langar Wali Dal is usually on the thicker side, but you can adjust it according to your preference.
- Using ghee for tempering adds an authentic flavor, but oil can be used for a vegan version.
How to Serve Langar Wali Dal:
Serve Langar Wali Dal hot with a side of naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. A dollop of butter or cream on top enriches the dal further, making it a heartier meal.
In a nutshell:
Langar Wali Dal is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of togetherness, love, and the generosity of spirit. Its rich, comforting flavors make it a beloved meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. By bringing the essence of the Gurudwara’s langar into your home, you embrace a tradition of communal dining and warmth. Enjoy the process of cooking this nurturing dish and the joy it brings to those who gather around your table.
CLICK HERE for some more delicious Indian Dal Recipes.