Daal Baati Recipe: A Hearty Rajasthani Dish
When it comes to Indian cuisine, the diversity of flavors and dishes is simply mind-boggling. One such mouthwatering delight hailing from the royal state of Rajasthan is “Daal Baati.” This hearty dish combines spicy lentil curry with a crispy baked wheat bread, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Daal (Lentil Curry):
- 1 cup yellow split lentils (toor dal)
- 1/2 cup Bengal gram (chana dal)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee for tempering
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
For the Baati (Baked Wheat Bread):
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup semolina (sooji)
- 1/2 cup ghee or clarified butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Water for kneading
Preparation Time:
- Daal: 15 minutes (plus pressure cooking time)
- Baati: 20 minutes
- Total: Approximately 1 hour
Preparation Steps:
For the Daal (Lentil Curry):
- Wash and soak: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook faster.
- Pressure cook: Drain the soaked lentils and cook them in a pressure cooker with enough water. Add turmeric powder and salt. Cook until they are soft and mushy. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes after the first whistle.
- Prepare the tempering: In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds, minced garlic, chopped ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until they turn fragrant.
- Add onions: Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Tomato magic: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle red chili powder and mix well. Let the masala cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from it.
- Combine everything: Pour this tempering mixture into the cooked lentils and mix well. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together. Adjust the consistency of the daal by adding water if needed.
For the Baati (Baked Wheat Bread):
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, semolina, ghee, and salt. Gradually add water and knead until you have a firm, smooth dough. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Shape the baatis: Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into balls. Flatten them slightly to form small discs.
- Baking time: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the baatis on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Serving Daal Baati:
Traditionally, Daal Baati is served with a dollop of ghee on top of the baatis and a generous serving of daal. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for that extra burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts:
Daal Baati is more than just a dish; it’s a piece of Rajasthan’s rich culinary heritage. The creamy, spiced lentil curry perfectly complements the crispy, baked wheat bread, creating a combination that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, Daal Baati is a delicious choice that will transport your taste buds to the colorful land of Rajasthan. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to savor this royal treat!
Daal baati recipe(youtube)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3JRen78Y60