Bihari-style Lauki Chana Dal (बिहारी-स्टाइल लौकी चना दाल)

This Bihari-style Lauki Chana Dal recipe is a traditional dish from the Bihari cuisine, known for its simplicity and delicious flavors. It combines bottle gourd (lauki) and split chickpeas (chana dal) with aromatic spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal.

Bihari-style Lauki Chana Dal (बिहारी-स्टाइल लौकी चना दाल)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
  • 2 cups bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 2 cups water
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash the chana dal and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for a minute.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.
  5. Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  6. Add the diced bottle gourd and soaked chana dal. Stir for a few minutes.
  7. Pour in 2 cups of water, close the pressure cooker, and cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is cooked and the bottle gourd is soft.
  8. Once the pressure releases, open the cooker, sprinkle garam masala, and mix gently.
  9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
8g
Fiber
10g

Supplies

Pressure cooker Cutting board Knife Spatula Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Pressure cooker Saucepan Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Enjoy the Lauki Chana Dal with steamed rice or roti for a wholesome meal.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Cost

$8