### Gujarati Dal Recipe
Gujarati Dal is a scrumptious dish that highlights the distinctive tastes of Gujarati cooking, known for its sweet, tangy, and spicy elements. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a common feature in numerous Gujarati kitchens, making it essential for anyone eager to delve into regional Indian gastronomy.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Dal:**
– 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1-2 green chilies, slit
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp (or juice of 1 lemon)
– 1-2 tablespoons jaggery (or sugar, to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– **For the Tempering:**
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1-2 dried red chilies
– A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
– Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions
1. **Cook the Dal:**
– Rinse the toor dal thoroughly under running water until it is clear. In a pressure cooker, combine the rinsed dal, turmeric powder, green chilies, grated ginger, and water. Cook for approximately 3-4 whistles or until the dal becomes tender and mushy.
– After cooking, lightly mash the dal with a spoon or whisk to obtain a smooth texture.
2. **Add Flavors:**
– Incorporate the tamarind pulp, jaggery, and salt into the cooked dal. Modify the sweetness and tanginess to match your preference. Allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
3. **Prepare the Tempering:**
– In a small skillet, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Subsequently, add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté for a brief moment until aromatic.
4. **Combine:**
– Drizzle the tempering over the simmering dal and stir well. Let it continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Decorate with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot alongside phulkas (Indian flatbreads) or steamed rice, accompanied by a side of vegetables or raita for a complete meal.
#### Conclusion
Gujarati Dal is an exemplary showcase of the khati meeti (sweet and sour) flavor profile found in Gujarati dishes. Its distinctive combination of spices, the sweetness from jaggery, and the tanginess from tamarind make it an enchanting addition to any spread. Whether enjoyed with phulkas or rice, this dal is guaranteed to delight at your dining table. Relish this culinary treasure and dive into the rich flavors of Gujarat!