Creamy Lentil Curry (dal Makhani)

Creamy Lentil Curry, also known as Dal Makhani, is a popular dish from Punjabi cuisine known for its rich and creamy texture. This flavorful dish is made with black lentils, kidney beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy.

Vegan Gluten Free Main Course Punjabi Indian Cuisine Lentils Creamy Curry Vegetarian
Creamy Lentil Curry (dal Makhani)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup black lentils (whole urad dal)
  • 1/4 cup kidney beans
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and soak the black lentils and kidney beans in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Pressure cook the soaked lentils and kidney beans with 4 cups of water, salt, and turmeric powder until soft and mushy.
  3. Heat oil and butter in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
  4. Add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
  5. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  6. Add the cooked lentils and kidney beans to the tomato masala. Mix well and simmer for 30 minutes.
  7. Add garam masala, red chili powder, and adjust salt to taste. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Pressure Cooker Pan Spatula Knife Cutting Board

Tools

Pressure Cooker Pan Stirring Spoon Serving Bowl

Serving suggestions

Serving Suggestions: Serve with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Tips & tricks

Tips: For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a piece of charcoal to the finished dish and drizzle some ghee on it. Cover the dish immediately to infuse the smoky flavor.

Cost

$10