Biji's Special Chana Dal Masala by Chef Ranveer Brar

Dadi's Chana Dal Masala

Step 1: Cook the Dal [00:00]

1. In a pressure cooker, add 2-3 tbsp ghee and 2 cups of soaked chana dal.
2. Season with salt, add water, 1 tbsp chopped coriander stems, 2 chopped green chillies (one less spicy, one spicy), and ½ tsp turmeric powder.
3. Close the lid and cook.

Step 2: Prepare the Masala [01:25]

1. In a frying pan, roast 1 tbsp coriander seeds with a little salt and 1 tbsp dry fenugreek leaves.
2. Once roasted, crush the mixture using a mortar and pestle.

Step 3: Prepare the Paste [02:24]

1. Roughly chop ½ cup fresh coriander leaves, ½ inch of ginger, and 4-5 garlic cloves.
2. Add them to a small bowl along with 1 green chilli and grind until a paste is formed.

Step 4: Assemble and Finalize [02:39]

1. In a pot, heat 4-5 heaped tbsp of ghee. Add ¼ tsp carom seeds and 4-5 fenugreek seeds.
2. Add the prepared paste to the pot and sauté well.
3. Add ¼ cup fried onions and cook for a few moments.
4. Add the cooked dal from the pressure cooker to the pot.
5. Sprinkle the crushed masala over the dal, mix, and let it simmer.
6. Serve garnished with chilli oil and a fresh coriander sprig.