Panchmel Dal: A Harmony of Five Lentils

 

Introduction to Panchmel Dal:

Panchmel Dal, also known as Panchratna Dal or Five Lentils Dal, is a traditional Rajasthani dish that combines five different lentils cooked together with aromatic spices to create a flavorful and nutritious dish.

 

Cooking Panchmel Dal:

A mix of lentils like split urad dal, chana dal, moong dal, masoor dal, and toor dal is cooked until soft. A melange of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala infuses rich flavors into the dal.

 

Preparation Techniques:

1. Lentil Mix: The lentils are usually soaked to reduce cooking time and aid in easy digestion.
2. Spice Blend: Roasting and grinding whole spices elevate the dish's taste, giving it a unique aroma and flavor.

 

Serving Panchmel Dal:

It pairs excellently with roti, rice, or naan, providing a balanced meal when combined with a side of vegetables or yogurt.

 

Health Benefits of Panchmel Dal: 

The combination of different lentils enriches the dish with a variety of nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome choice.

 

Cooking Tips for Panchmel Dal:

1. Consistency: Adjust water quantity for desired thickness—some prefer it thicker, while others like a more soupy texture.
2. Spices: Balancing the spices is crucial; taste and adjust according to preference.

 

Nutritional Value:

Panchmel Dal offers a diverse range of nutrients from the various lentils, contributing to overall health and well-being.

 

Dal Panchamel

• Portions serving: 7-8 pax
• Preparation time: 10 min
• Cooking time: 50 min
• Calories: 163 cal per portion

 

Ingredients:

For Lentils:

• Tur dal: ¼ cup
• Chana dal: ¼ cup
• Split green moong dal: ¼ cup
• Masoor dal: ¼ cup
• Moong dal: ¼ cup
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
• Hing: ¼ tsp
• Water: as required
• Oil: 3 tbsp

 

For Tempering:

• Jeera: 1 tsp
• Saunf: 1 tsp
• Hing: ½ tsp
• Dry red chilli: 1 pc
• Onion (chopped): 1 cup
• Garlic (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Green chilli (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Ginger (chopped): ½ tbsp
• Tomato (chopped): 1 cup
• Turmeric powder: 1 tsp
• Red chilli powder: 1 tsp
• Coriander powder: 2 tsp
• Kasuri methi: 1 tbsp
• Coriander (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Ghee: 1 tbsp

 

Method:

1. Washing and Preparing Lentils:

   • Combine all lentils in a bowl. Wash them thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
   • Transfer the washed lentils to a pressure cooker.
   • Add 4 cups of water, salt, turmeric powder, a pinch of hing, and 2 tablespoons of oil.
   • Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles until the lentils are soft and well-cooked.

2. Tempering:

   • Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds, saunf, hing, and a dry red chilli. Let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onion and garlic. Saute until the onion turns golden brown.

3. Cooking Masala:

   • Add chopped green chilli, ginger, and tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
   • Add salt, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Saute until the oil separates.

4. Combining Dal with Masala:

   • Add a portion of the pressure-cooked dal to the pan and mash it into the masala.
   • Pour the remaining dal into the pan. Adjust water as needed and let it simmer.

5. Final Touch:

   • Add kasuri methi and chopped coriander. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
   • Finish by adding ghee and mixing it well into the Dal Panchmel.

6. Serve:

   • Your flavorful Dal Panchmel is ready. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh coriander, with your favorite Indian assortments like rice, roti, or naan.

Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Dal Panchmel, a blend of various lentils and spices that tantalizes the taste buds!

 

Conclusion:

Panchmel Dal is not only a flavorful addition to any meal but also a nutritionally rich dish that showcases the culinary diversity of lentils, making it a cherished part of Indian cuisine.

 

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I alter the lentils in Panchmel Dal? Yes, you can adjust the lentil combination according to availability and taste preferences.

2. Is Panchmel Dal high in protein? Yes, due to the mix of lentils, it's a good source of plant-based protein.

3. Can I make Panchmel Dal without soaking the lentils? Soaking lentils aids in quick cooking and digestion; however, it's possible to cook them without soaking, although it might take longer.

4. How can I make Panchmel Dal spicier? Adjust the quantity of chili or use spicier varieties to increase the heat level.

5. Can I prepare Panchmel Dal in a pressure cooker? Yes, a pressure cooker can expedite the cooking process; adjust water accordingly for the desired consistency.

6. Is Panchmel Dal suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, it's a vegan-friendly dish prepared without any animal products.

7. Can I store Panchmel Dal? Yes, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container; it stays fresh for a couple of days and can be reheated before serving.

8. Can I make Panchmel Dal less spicy for kids? Yes, reduce or omit chili and use milder spices to suit children's taste preferences.

 

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