CHICKEN DHANSAK | CHANA DAAL | LENTIL CURRY | AUTHENTIC TRADITIONAL HOME STYLE BANGLADESHI RECIPE

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chickpeas

Tofu provides a vegetarian option, while chickpeas are budget-friendly and nutritious.

lentils

🥗Healthier: split peas

💰Cheaper: pulses

Split peas are a great substitute with similar texture and taste.

garam masala

🥗Healthier: curry powder

💰Cheaper: mixed spices

Curry powder can mimic the flavor profile of garam masala at a lower cost.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil offers health benefits, while sunflower oil is often less expensive.

Heat 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of ghee in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add 1.5 chopped onions and 2 teaspoons of salt; cook until onions soften, about 5 minutes.

Stir in 1 teaspoon of ginger and 2 teaspoons of garlic; cook for another 2 minutes.

Add 8-10 chopped green chilies and cook until fragrant.

Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of curry powder, 2 teaspoons of coriander powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of cumin; cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add 2 medium chopped tomatoes and 1 cup of boiling water; cook until tomatoes soften and the mixture thickens.

Add 1 kg of chicken thigh pieces; cover and cook for about 10 minutes until chicken releases its juices.

Add soaked chana dal and stir; cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, adding more water if needed.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary