How to make Chana Dal easily at home?

About Chana Dal.

Embark on a culinary journey with Chana Dal, a versatile and nutritious legume that has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. Chana Dal, also known as split chickpeas, is derived from the larger Bengal gram (chickpea) and holds a special place in the hearts of many food enthusiasts. With its mild and nutty flavor, Chana Dal lends itself to a myriad of delicious dishes, ranging from comforting dals and stews to crispy snacks and desserts. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, Chana Dal not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a wholesome and nourishing addition to various culinary creations. Join the culinary exploration and discover the diverse ways it can elevate your gastronomic experiences.

Here’s a basic recipe for making it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Chana Dal (split chickpeas)
• 3 cups water (for soaking)
• 3 cups water (for cooking)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soaking Chana Dal:
   • Rinse the Chana Dal under cold water until the water runs clear.
   • Soak it in 3 cups of water for at least 1-2 hours. This helps soften the dal and reduces the cooking time.
2. Cooking Chana Dal:
   • After soaking, drain the water from the dal.
   • In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the soaked Chana Dal and 3 cups of fresh water.
   • Pressure cook for about 3-4 whistles or simmer in a pot until the dal is soft and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Tempering (Tadka):
   • In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat.
   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Adding Aromatics:
   • Add grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
5. Spices:
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine the spices.
6. Tomatoes:
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.
7. Combining with Cooked Dal:
   • Transfer the cooked it to the pan with the tempered spices. Mix well to combine.
8. Adjusting Consistency and Seasoning:
   • Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed.
   • Season with salt according to your taste.
9. Simmering:
   • Let the dal simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with rice or Indian bread like roti or naan.

This Chana Dal recipe provides a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. Feel free to customize the spices and adjust the consistency based on your preferences.

Nutritional Value.

Chana Dal, or split chickpeas, is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch, offering a range of health benefits. Here’s an overview of the nutritional value of it per 100 grams:

Macronutrients:

• Calories: Approximately 160 calories
• Protein: Around 8.7 grams
• Carbohydrates: About 27 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Roughly 7.6 grams
• Fat: Approximately 2.6 grams

Micronutrients:

• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin B6: About 0.48 milligrams
  • Folate (Vitamin B9): Around 299 micrograms
  • Thiamine (Vitamin B1): Approximately 0.16 milligrams
  • Niacin (Vitamin B3): About 1.2 milligrams
• Minerals:
  • Iron: Roughly 2.9 milligrams
  • Phosphorus: Around 168 milligrams
  • Magnesium: Approximately 48 milligrams
  • Zinc: About 1.5 milligrams
  • Potassium: Roughly 875 milligrams
  • Copper: Around 0.35 milligrams
  • Manganese: Approximately 1.2 milligrams

Other Nutrients:

• Antioxidants:
  • It contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Plant Compounds:
  • Chana Dal contains plant compounds such as saponins and polyphenols, which may have various health benefits.

Health Benefits:

1. Rich in Protein:
   • It is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.
2. High in Fiber:
   • The high fiber content aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
3. Good Source of Iron:
   • Iron is crucial for the formation of hemoglobin and the transport of oxygen in the blood. Including Chana Dal in your diet can contribute to your iron intake.
4. Vitamins and Minerals:
   • It provides various vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium, supporting overall health and well-being.
5. Regulates Blood Sugar:
   • The combination of fiber and low glycemic index in it may help regulate blood sugar levels.
6. Heart Health:
   • The fiber, potassium, and low saturated fat content in Chana Dal contribute to heart health by helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

It’s important to note that the nutritional values can vary slightly based on factors such as cooking methods and specific varieties of it. Incorporating Chana Dal into a balanced diet can contribute to a nutrient-rich and flavorful eating experience.

Health Benefits.

Chana Dal, or split chickpeas, offers a range of health benefits due to its nutrient-rich profile. Here are some notable health benefits:

1. Rich Source of Protein:
   • It is a significant source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance. It is particularly beneficial for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets.
2. High in Dietary Fiber:
   • The high fiber content in it aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps regulate bowel movements. This can contribute to maintaining a healthy digestive system.
3. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:
   • Chana Dal has a low glycemic index, which means it releases glucose slowly into the bloodstream. This characteristic, combined with its fiber content, may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a suitable food choice for individuals with diabetes.
4. Heart Health:
   • The fiber, potassium, and low saturated fat content in Chana Dal contribute to heart health. The fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
5. Provides Essential Vitamins and Minerals:
   • It is rich in vitamins such as folate (B9), vitamin B6, thiamine (B1), and niacin (B3), all of which play crucial roles in various bodily functions. Additionally, it provides essential minerals like iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium.
6. Boosts Energy Levels:
   • The combination of complex carbohydrates and protein in Chana Dal provides a sustained release of energy, making it an excellent choice for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
7. Supports Weight Management:
   • The fiber content in it promotes satiety, helping control appetite and reduce overall calorie intake. Including Chana Dal in a balanced diet may support weight management efforts.
8. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
   • it contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body, contributing to overall health and well-being.
9. Bone Health:
   • it contains minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese, which are essential for maintaining bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
10. Balances Hormones:
    • The presence of nutrients like folate and vitamin B6 in Chana Dal supports hormonal balance in the body, contributing to overall reproductive health.

It’s important to note that while Chana Dal offers numerous health benefits, individual dietary needs and considerations may vary. Including a variety of nutrient-rich foods as part of a well-balanced diet is key to reaping the maximum health benefits.

Tips and Tricks.

Enhance your Chana Dal cooking experience with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Soaking Chana Dal:
   • Soak it for at least 1-2 hours before cooking. This reduces cooking time and aids in better digestion. For a quicker option, you can also use hot water for soaking.
2. Rinsing Thoroughly:
   • Rinse the soaked Chana Dal thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. This helps prevent the dal from becoming too sticky during cooking.
3. Pressure Cooking:
   • Use a pressure cooker for cooking it to save time and energy. It ensures even and faster cooking, resulting in well-cooked and tender dal.
4. Tempering (Tadka):
   • Enhance the flavor by adding a tempering of cumin seeds, mustard seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves in ghee or oil. Pour this tempering over the cooked dal just before serving.
5. Aromatic Spices:
   • Include whole spices like bay leaves, cinnamon, or cloves while cooking for added aroma and depth of flavor. Remove them before serving.
6. Tomato Timing:
   • Add tomatoes after the tempering to preserve their freshness and ensure they cook evenly without becoming too mushy.
7. Creamy Texture with Cashews:
   • For a creamy texture, blend a handful of cashews with water and add the mixture to the dal. This adds richness without the need for heavy cream.
8. Balancing Spices:
   • Adjust the quantity of red chili powder and other spices according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
9. Lemon Zest:
   • Add a dash of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors of the dal.
10. Garnishing:
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a swirl of cream for added richness.
11. Frying Onions:
    • If the recipe calls for fried onions, fry them until golden brown before adding to the dal. This enhances their flavor and adds a crunchy texture.
12. Storing Leftovers:
    • Store leftover Chana Dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tends to thicken upon cooling, so you may need to add a bit of water when reheating.
13. Experiment with Varieties:
    • Explore different varieties of Chana Dal, such as black chickpeas (Kala Chana) or split yellow peas, for diverse textures and flavors.
14. Serve with Accompaniments:
    • Pair it with rice, roti, naan, or bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Consider serving it alongside pickles or a side of yogurt.

By incorporating these tips and tricks, you can elevate the taste and texture of your Chana Dal, making it a delightful and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Serving Suggestions.

Enjoy the wholesome flavors of it with these delightful serving suggestions:

1. Steamed Basmati Rice:
   • Serve Chana Dal over a bed of steamed basmati rice for a classic and comforting combination. The nutty aroma of basmati rice complements the rich flavors of the dal.
2. Indian Breads:
   • Pair it with various Indian bread options such as chapati, roti, naan, or paratha. The combination of the soft, fluffy bread and flavorful dal is truly satisfying.
3. Jeera Rice:
   • Jeera rice, or cumin-flavored rice, is an excellent accompaniment. The mild cumin flavor adds a subtle dimension that complements the spices in it.
4. Quinoa or Brown Rice:
   • For a healthier twist, serve it with quinoa or brown rice. This provides additional fiber and nutrients to the meal.
5. Pulao:
   • Enjoy Chana Dal with vegetable pulao for a complete and aromatic meal. The pulao’s spices and mixed vegetables complement the dal beautifully.
6. Biryani:
   • Chana Dal can be part of a biryani ensemble, adding protein and texture to the layers of fragrant rice and spices.
7. Lentil Pancakes (Puda):
   • Spread Chana Dal over lentil pancakes, known as puda or cheela. These savory pancakes make a unique and tasty combination.
8. Bread or Roti Rolls:
   • Make hearty rolls by filling whole wheat bread or roti with Chana Dal. This portable option is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
9. Idli or Dosa:
   • Explore South Indian flavors by serving it with idli or dosa. The dal’s thickness complements the softness of idlis or the crispiness of dosas.
10. Fresh Salad:
    • Pair it with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. The cool, crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the warm dal.
11. Yogurt Raita:
    • Create a cooling effect by serving it with a side of yogurt raita. The combination balances the spices and adds a creamy texture.
12. Chutneys or Pickles:
    • Accompany it with various chutneys or pickles for added flavor dimensions. Mint chutney or mango pickle can be excellent choices.
13. Squeeze of Lemon:
    • Enhance the flavors by squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice over the Chana Dal just before serving. This adds a zesty and citrusy kick.

Choose the serving option that suits your taste preferences and enjoy the versatile and delicious Chana Dal in a variety of ways.

FAQs.