Cholar Dal/ चोलर दाल
Cholar Dal is Also Known as Bengal Gram Lentil Curry, Spicy Chana Dal
Cholar Dal: A rich and flavorful Bengal delicacy, packed with lentils, spices, and tradition. Perfect for your weekly meals!
- Cook Time: 30.00 min
- Serving size: # 4
- Serve: Hot
- Per Serving Calore: 205.745 Kcal
Cholar Dal is a delicious and nutritious addition to your weekly menu. Packed with plant-based protein, it helps in muscle building and keeps you feeling full longer. The high fiber content aids digestion and promotes heart health. The unique combination of spices not only enhances its flavor but also boosts metabolism. Cholar Dal is rich in essential minerals and vitamins, making it a great choice for overall well-being. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for a hearty meal anytime!
Nutrition Facts
Amount per Serving of Cholar Dal
Vitamins & Minerals present in
Cholar Dal
Meal Planning Tips
Cholar Dal is a traditional Bengali dish that’s beloved for its rich flavor, vibrant color, and numerous health benefits. Made with split Bengal gram (chana dal), it’s not just tasty but also packed with nutrients that support overall health. Whether you're looking to add more plant-based proteins to your diet or simply want a hearty, satisfying dish for the whole family, Cholar Dal is the perfect choice. This dish is both filling and full of flavor, with a variety of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and bay leaves that give it a unique taste and aromatic appeal.
But what makes Cholar Dal stand out is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Want a little extra heat? Add some green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder. Craving a richer, creamier texture? Stir in some coconut milk or ghee to take it up a notch. The addition of fried coconut is a common variation that adds a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness. You can also serve it with a variety of accompaniments like steamed rice, luchis (deep-fried breads), or even a simple cucumber salad to balance the spice.
As for the seasonality, Cholar Dal is perfect for all seasons but holds a special place during the winter months. The warmth of the spices combined with the richness of the dal makes it an ideal dish to enjoy during chilly evenings. Its hearty nature makes it a satisfying comfort food that will fill you up without leaving you feeling sluggish.
Another reason to add Cholar Dal to your diet plan is its nutritional profile. Chana dal is a great source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It's also packed with fiber, making it excellent for digestion and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and magnesium, it helps support energy levels, improve bone health, and maintain a healthy heart.
Not only is Cholar Dal nutritious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Even if you're new to cooking, you can make this dish in under an hour! The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps makes it a great addition to your weekly meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days, making it an ideal dish for busy days when you need a quick, nutritious meal.
So, whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals, seeking comfort food with a twist, or looking to make something that will leave your guests asking for seconds, Cholar Dal is a must-try! Its bold flavors, nutritional benefits, and ability to be customized to suit your taste make it a perfect dish to incorporate into your diet plan.
Preparation of Cholar Dal: Start by rinsing the chana dal thoroughly to remove any impurities. In a pot, add the dal and enough water to cover it. Let it soak for about 20 minutes to soften the dal. Time: 5 minutes
Cooking the Dal: Once the dal is soaked, drain any excess water and add it to a pressure cooker or a deep pot. Add fresh water and cook the dal for about 3-4 whistles in the pressure cooker, or simmer on low heat until the dal is soft and cooked through. Time: 15-20 minutes
Tempering the Spices: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then add a bay leaf, a piece of cinnamon, and a pinch of asafoetida. Stir briefly. Time: 3 minutes
Adding the Aromatics: Once the spices release their fragrance, add chopped ginger, green chilies, and garlic. Fry them for a minute or until they soften. Then add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Time: 5-7 minutes
Incorporating Tomatoes and Spices: Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften. Then stir in turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and a pinch of garam masala. Cook the masala for another 2 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the mixture. Time: 5 minutes
Combining with the Dal: Add the cooked dal to the pan and mix it well with the tempering. Add some water to adjust the consistency to your liking. Simmer the dal for another 5-10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Time: 5-10 minutes
Final Touches: Once the dal is well-cooked and the flavors have blended, add salt to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or fried bread. Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes