Five Lentil Curry (panchmel Dal)

Five Lentil Curry, also known as Panchmel Dal, is a traditional Rajasthani dish packed with protein and flavor. This hearty and nutritious curry is made with a blend of five different lentils, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Vegan Gluten Free Main Course Rajasthani Rajasthani Cuisine Lentil Curry Panchmel Dal Indian Cuisine
Five Lentil Curry (panchmel Dal)

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal)
  • 1/4 cup split black gram lentils (urad dal)
  • 1/4 cup split Bengal gram lentils (chana dal)
  • 1/4 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
  • 1/4 cup green gram lentils (moong dal)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse all the lentils together and soak them in water for 30 minutes. Then, drain the water and set aside.
  2. In a pressure cooker or large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  4. Stir in the tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and green chili. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate.
  5. Add the soaked lentils, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
  6. Pour in 4 cups of water and stir to combine. If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook for 4-5 whistles. If using a pot, cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
5g

Supplies

Pressure cooker or large pot Chopping board Knife Measuring cups and spoons Stirring spoon

Tools

Pressure cooker or large pot Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Five Lentil Curry with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

For added flavor, you can also top the curry with a dollop of yogurt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Cost

$10