Dal Bhat is a staple dish of Nepali cuisine, symbolizing both sustenance and hospitality in this diverse Himalayan nation. This heartwarming meal consists of a flavorful lentil soup (dal) served over steamed rice (bhat) and often accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, pickles, or meat. It’s a balanced meal full of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to prepare this classic dish so you can bring the taste of Nepal into your home kitchen.
Ultimate Dal Bhat Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dal:
- 1 cup lentils (yellow, red, or a mixture)
- 4 cups water
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powdera
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or ghee)
For the Bhat (Rice):
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Side Dishes:
- Spinach sauteed with garlic and ginger
- Pickled radish or mango pickle
- Alu Tama (potato and bamboo shoot curry)
- Spiced meat curry
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Instructions:
For the Dal:
1. Rinse the lentils in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, bring the 4 cups of water to a boil and add the lentils. Simmer for 20 minutes until they are fully cooked and have a soup-like consistency.
3. While the lentils are cooking, heat the oil in a frying pan on medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida, stirring until they start to sputter.
4. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then add the garlic and ginger and fry for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are broken down and form a thick sauce.
6. Combine this spice mixture into the cooked lentils, stir well, and allow to simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.
For the Bhat (Rice):
1. Wash the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a pot, bring water and salt to a boil. Add the rice and cook on medium heat until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Assembling Dal Bhat:
1. On a plate, take a generous scoop of warm, fluffy basmati rice (bhat).
2. Ladle the aromatic dal over the rice, allowing it to partly mix with the bhat.
3. Serve with your choice of side dishes, such as sautéed spinach, pickles, or curries.
Conclusion
Whether you are making it for a simple family meal or a festive occasion, Dal Bhat is a versatile and nourishing dish that celebrates Nepalis’ rich culinary heritage. It’s comfort food that not only satisfies your hunger but also soothes the soul with its blend of spices and hearty ingredients. Pair this meal with fermented vegetables or a tangy pickle to introduce an array of flavors and textures to your palate.
Enjoy the process of preparing this beloved Nepali dish, and let the flavors transport you to the laps of the Himalayas. Remember, the best part about Dal Bhat is its flexibility – feel free to experiment with the types of dal, spices, and side dishes you use, making it your own unique creation. Happy cooking!
Disclaimer
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