How to make delicious Dal Baati Churma at home?

About

Dal Baati Churma is a traditional dish from the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a wholesome and hearty meal consisting of three components – dal (lentil soup), baati (baked dough balls), and churma (sweet dessert made from wheat flour). This dish is usually served together and is popular staple food in Rajasthani cuisine.

This dish is made by baking whole wheat dough balls in a traditional oven or tandoor, giving it a crispy outer layer and a soft interior. The dal is made with lentils and a blend of aromatic spices, while the churma is a sweet dessert made with wheat flour, ghee, and jaggery or sugar. The combination of these three components makes This dish a flavorful and nutritious meal that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Dal Baati Churma is a popular dish from the state of Rajasthan in India. It is a wholesome meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), baked dough balls (baati), and a sweet dessert made from wheat flour (churma). Here’s how you can make it at home:

Dal Baati Churma with oven

Ingredients:

For Dal:

• 1 cup yellow split peas (toor dal)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, chopped
• 2 cups water

For Baati:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup semolina (suji)
• 1/2 cup ghee
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For Churma:

• 1 cup wheat flour
• 1/2 cup ghee
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• Water as needed

Instructions for Dal Baati Churma:

1. To make the dal, rinse the split peas in cold water and soak them for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
2. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked split peas, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and 2 cups of water. Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the split peas are soft and mushy.
3. In a separate pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add onions, tomatoes, green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Saute until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the cooked split peas to the pan and mix well. Add water to adjust the consistency of the dal. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. To make the baati, mix whole wheat flour, semolina, ghee, and salt in a bowl. Add water gradually to make a stiff dough.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Divide the dough into small balls and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the baatis are golden brown and cooked through.
7. To make the churma, mix wheat flour and ghee in a bowl. Add water gradually to make a stiff dough. Divide the dough into small balls and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until the churma balls are golden brown and cooked through.
8. Crush the churma balls into a fine powder using a food processor or a mortar and pestle. Mix in powdered sugar and cardamom powder.
9. Serve the dal with baati and churma on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Dal Baati Churma!

Dal Baati Churma without oven

You can make this dish without an oven as well. Here’s how you can make it on a stovetop:

Ingredients:

For Dal:

• 1 cup yellow split peas (toor dal)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, chopped
• 3 cups water

For Baati:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup semolina (suji)
• 1/2 cup ghee
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For Churma:

• 1 cup wheat flour
• 1/2 cup ghee
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• Water as needed

Instructions for Dal Baati Churma:

1. To make the dal, rinse the split peas in cold water and soak them for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
2. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked split peas, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and 3 cups of water. Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the split peas are soft and mushy.
3. In a separate pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add onions, tomatoes, green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Saute until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the cooked split peas to the pan and mix well. Add water to adjust the consistency of the dal. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. To make the baati, mix whole wheat flour, semolina, ghee, and salt in a bowl. Add water gradually to make a stiff dough.
6. Divide the dough into small balls and shape them into flat discs with a slight indentation in the center. Place the baatis in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai.
7. Cover the pan with a lid and cook the baatis on low flame for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
8. To make the churma, mix wheat flour and ghee in a bowl. Add water gradually to make a stiff dough. Divide the dough into small balls and shape them into flat discs.
9. Heat ghee in a pan and fry the churma discs until they are golden brown and crispy. Crush them into a fine powder using a food processor or a mortar and pestle. Mix in powdered sugar and cardamom powder.
10. Serve the dal with baati and churma on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Dal Baati Churma!

Nutritional Value

This dish is nutritious and filling meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and fibers. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional value of this dish per serving:

• Calories: 700-800
• Carbohydrates: 90-100 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams
• Fiber: 10-12 grams
• Sodium: 500-600 milligrams

The nutritional value may vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, dal provides a good amount of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, while baati and churma are high in carbohydrates and fats. The ghee used in this dish is a good source of healthy fats and adds to its nutritional value. Overall, Dal Baati Churma is a wholesome and balanced meal that can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a healthy diet.

Health Benefits of Dal Baati Churma

Dal Baati Churma is a traditional and popular Rajasthani dish from India that consists of three components: dal (lentil curry), baati (baked wheat balls), and churma (sweet crumbled wheat). This wholesome and delicious combination offers several health benefits:

1. Protein-Rich: Dal, made from lentils, provides a good amount of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body functions.
2. Rich in Fiber: Lentils used in the dal and whole wheat used in baati and churma are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and keeps you feeling full for longer, supporting weight management.
3. Complex Carbohydrates: Whole wheat in baati and churma provides complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy release and preventing blood sugar spikes.
4. Low in Saturated Fat: When prepared without excessive ghee (clarified butter), Dal Baati Churma is relatively low in saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly choice.
5. Nutrient-Dense: The combination of dal, whole wheat, and spices in the dish provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.
6. Ghee and Nutrition Absorption: Ghee, if used in moderation, enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins present in the dish, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
7. Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of savory dal, slightly spicy baati, and sweet churma creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal experience.
8. Cultural Significance: Apart from its nutritional benefits, Dal Baati Churma holds cultural significance and is an integral part of Rajasthani cuisine, representing the rich heritage and flavors of the region.

As with any dish, moderation is key. While Dal Baati Churma is a nutritious and tasty meal, be mindful of portion sizes and avoid excessive use of ghee or oil during preparation. For those with specific dietary needs or health conditions, it’s always beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice. Enjoy this traditional Rajasthani delicacy as part of a balanced diet to savor its flavors and reap its health benefits.

Tips and Tricks

Sure! Here are some tips and tricks to make delicious Dal Baati Churma:

1. Perfect Baati: When making baati, make sure the dough is kneaded well and smooth. Adding a small amount of ghee or oil to the dough can enhance the taste and texture.
2. Preheat the Oven: If you are baking baati, preheat the oven to the recommended temperature before placing the baatis inside. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
3. Use a Pressure Cooker: To save time, you can partially cook the baatis in a pressure cooker before finishing them in the oven or on a direct flame. This helps in achieving a soft interior and a crispy crust.
4. Steam Baati: Another method to partially cook baati is by steaming them for a few minutes before baking or frying. This can help in getting a soft texture.
5. Test Doneness: When baking baati, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or a knife into one baati. If it comes out clean, they are ready.
6. Moderate Use of Ghee: While ghee adds richness to the dish, use it in moderation to keep the calorie content in check. You can brush a small amount of ghee on the baatis before serving.
7. Variation in Churma: Get creative with churma by adding chopped nuts, raisins, and grated coconut to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
8. Consistency of Dal: For a thick and creamy dal, simmer it for a longer time to allow the lentils to break down and create a smoother texture. Alternatively, you can use a hand blender to achieve the desired consistency.
9. Tempering: Enhance the flavor of dal by adding a tempering of ghee, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies. Pour this over the dal just before serving.
10. Garnish: Garnish the dal with chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness and tanginess.

Remember, making Dal Baati Churma is an art, and it may take a few attempts to get it just right. Enjoy the process and experiment with flavors to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Baati Churma is a popular Rajasthani dish that consists of baati (baked wheat dumplings) and churma (coarsely ground wheat-based sweet). Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this traditional and delicious combination:

1. Serve with Panchmel Dal: Baati Churma is traditionally served with panchmel dal, a Rajasthani-style mixed lentil curry. The combination of baati and dal creates a hearty and flavorful meal.
2. Ghee Drizzle: Before serving, generously drizzle ghee (clarified butter) over the baatis. The ghee enhances the taste and adds richness to the dish.
3. Served Hot: Baati is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven. Serve it immediately after baking for the perfect texture and taste.
4. Accompany with Spicy Pickle: Serve baati with a side of spicy Rajasthani pickle. The pickle’s tangy and spicy flavors complement the baati and churma combination.
5. Pair with Buttermilk: Rajasthani buttermilk (chaas) is a refreshing beverage that complements the rich and hearty flavors of baati churma. Serve a glass of chilled buttermilk alongside the meal.
6. Include Gatte Ki Sabzi: For a complete Rajasthani experience, serve baati churma with gatte ki sabzi, a curry made with gram flour dumplings in a yogurt-based gravy.
7. Enjoy with a Side Salad: Offer a fresh cucumber, tomato, and onion salad with a sprinkle of chaat masala on the side. The salad adds a refreshing touch to the meal.
8. Sweet Lassi: If you prefer a sweeter beverage, you can serve sweet lassi alongside baati churma. The sweet lassi balances the savory flavors of the dish.
9. Customize the Churma: Churma comes in various flavors, including plain, besan (gram flour), or atta (whole wheat flour) churma. You can choose the one that suits your taste preferences.
10. Serve as a Dessert: Baati churma can also be served as a dessert after a Rajasthani meal. Offer a small portion of churma with a drizzle of ghee for a sweet and satisfying ending to the meal.

Remember that baati churma is a wholesome and indulgent dish, so savor each bite and enjoy the richness of Rajasthani cuisine.