Dhaka Style Bhuna Dal Khichuri Recipe

ghee

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: butter

Coconut oil offers a healthier fat option while maintaining flavor.

green chili

🥗Healthier: jalapeño

💰Cheaper: bell pepper

Jalapeño adds heat while bell pepper provides sweetness without spice.

carrots

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: frozen mixed vegetables

Zucchini is lower in calories, and frozen veggies save prep time.

lentils

🥗Healthier: split peas

💰Cheaper: dried beans

Split peas are nutritious and can be more affordable.

Prepare the Secret Spice Mix: In a mortar and pestle, grind together 2 green cardamoms, 1 black cardamom, 2 cloves, a very small piece of nutmeg, ½ mace, and 5-6 black peppercorns to make a fine powder. Set aside.

Cook the Onions: In a deep pan, heat 3 tbsp mustard oil and 2 tbsp cooking oil. Once warm, add ½ cup thinly sliced onions and ¼ tsp salt. Cook until the onions are light brown.

Add Whole Spices: To the pan, add ¼ tsp shah jeera, 2 bruised cardamoms, 3 cloves, 2 small cinnamon sticks, and 2 bay leaves. Sauté for a minute to let the spices become fragrant.

Add Ground Spices: Splash a little water into the pan, then add ½ tbsp garlic paste and 1 tbsp ginger paste. Cook for 30-40 seconds. Add ½ tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp red chili powder, and 1 tsp turmeric powder. Sauté until the spices separate from the oil over medium heat.

Add Rice and Lentils: Add 3 cups soaked kalijeera rice and ½ cup soaked moong dal to the pan. Mix well with the spice mix for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the secret spice mix and combine well.

Cook the Khichuri: Add 6½ cups of warm water, 1 tbsp mixed pickle, and salt to taste. Add ½ tsp roasted cumin, 1 cup soaked red lentils, a few drops of kewra water, and 8-10 green chilies. Bring to a boil, then cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes.

Garnish and Serve: Open the lid, mix well, and garnish with a pinch of roasted cumin, garam masala, 1 tbsp ghee, 2 tbsp fried onions, and fresh coriander. Cover and let it rest on the lowest heat for another 10 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary