Restaurant Style Dal Panchmel

Dal Panchmel is a flavorful and nutritious dish made with a combination of five different lentils (dals). It is a popular North Indian dish that is often served in restaurants. Each dal contributes its unique taste and texture, creating a delicious and hearty dish.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup split Bengal gram (chana dal)
• 1/4 cup split green gram (moong dal)
• 1/4 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
• 1/4 cup split black gram (urad dal)
• 1/4 cup pigeon peas (toor dal)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Wash all the lentils (dals) together and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water.
2. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked lentils along with 3 cups of water. Pressure cook for about 4-5 whistles or until the lentils are soft and cooked. Set aside.
3. Heat ghee in a pan or kadai on medium heat.
4. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
5. Add asafoetida (hing) and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
6. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
7. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
8. Add slit green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook the spices for a minute.
9. Add the cooked lentils (dal) to the pan and mix well with the spice mixture.
10. Simmer the dal for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to blend together.
11. Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding water if needed.
12. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
13. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
14. Squeeze some lemon juice over the dal before serving for an extra tangy flavor.

Your restaurant-style Dal Panchmel is now ready to be enjoyed. This comforting and wholesome dish is perfect for a satisfying meal.