Ingredients
Main Ingredients | मुख्य सामग्री:
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चना दाल | Bengal Gram (Chana Dal) - 1 cup
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लौकी | Bottle Gourd (grated or cubed) - 1 medium-sized
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हरी मिर्च | Green Chilies (optional, to taste) - 1-2
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जीरा | Cumin Seeds - 1 teaspoon
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हल्दी पाउडर | Turmeric Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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धनिया पाउडर | Coriander Powder - 1 teaspoon
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जीरा पाउडर | Cumin Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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गरम मसाला | Garam Masala (optional) - 1 teaspoon
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नमक | Salt - to taste
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तेल या घी | Oil or Ghee - 2 tablespoons
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पानी | Water - 3 cups
For Tempering | तड़के के लिए:
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कटी हुई धनिया पत्ती | Chopped Coriander Leaves - 3 tablespoons
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जीरा | Cumin Seeds - 1/2 tablespoon
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तेल | Oil - 4 tablespoons
Directions
Preparing the Chana Dal and lauki (चना दाल और लौकी तैयार करें):
Wash the chana dal thoroughly and drain the water and set the dal aside.
- Peel and cut Lauki into cubes
Cooking the Dal with Lauki (लौकी और दाल पकाएं):
Heat oil or ghee in a pressure cooker, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add grated or cubed lauki and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the soaked chana dal, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour water into the cooker and close the lid. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is soft.
Preparing the Tempering (तड़का तैयार करें):
In a small Ladel, heat 4 tablespoons of oil and add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
Garnishing (गार्निश ):
Garnish with additional chopped coriander leaves.
Serving (परोसें):
Serve Lauki Chana Dal hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti. Pair it with a side of pickle or papad for a complete meal.
Recipe Note
Tips for Making Perfect Lauki Chana Dal
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Soak the Dal:
Soaking chana dal before cooking ensures it softens faster and cooks evenly.
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Don’t Overcook Lauki:
Cook lauki until just tender to maintain its subtle flavor and texture.
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Consistency Matters:
Adjust the water quantity for a thicker or thinner curry based on your preference.
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Add Spice Variations:
You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) in the tempering for an extra layer of aroma.
Cultural Significance
Lauki Chana Dal is a quintessential dish in Indian households, especially in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Known for its simplicity, this dish represents the essence of home-cooked comfort food. Lauki, often underestimated, combines beautifully with chana dal to create a meal that's nutritious and flavorful. With its high protein and fiber content, this dish is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate healthy, balanced meals into their diet.
