Are you looking for a comforting meal that’s both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than white urad dal, a type of lentil that’s rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different recipes that showcase the versatility and creamy texture of white urad dal.
From classic curries to hearty stews and comforting soups, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in these pages to create a wide range of dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In our first installment, we’ll be highlighting some of the most popular and comforting white urad dal recipes that are perfect for any time of year. From creamy soups and stews to flavorful curries and dosas, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to cooking with white urad dal.
Classic Dal Makhani with White Urad Dal
A quintessential North Indian dish, Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy lentil curry that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of white urad dal with a hint of spices and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split white urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the dal, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the dal is cooked through.
5. Stir in butter or ghee and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
White Urad Dal Khichdi
Khichdi is a popular Indian dish made with lentils and rice, often served during illness or as a comforting meal. This recipe uses white urad dal (split black gram) for a creamy and nutritious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: herbs like cilantro, curry leaves, or green chilies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and dal separately and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and blend the soaked dal with 1 cup of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the blended dal mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add the drained rice to the pot and stir well to combine.
5. Add 2 cups of fresh water to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the dal has thickened.
7. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy White Urad Dal Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy and nutritious, made with urad dal (split white lentils) and aromatic spices. It’s an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split white urad dal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained urad dal and 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend, then return it to the pot.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
South Indian Urad Dal Dosa
A popular breakfast or snack option from South India, Urad Dal Dosa is a flavorful and nutritious treat made with split black gram (urad dal) and rice flour. This recipe yields soft, slightly crispy dosas that are perfect for savoring with sambar, chutney, or just on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida powder (optional)
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Soak the urad dal in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and grind into a smooth paste.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground urad dal, cooked rice, salt, and asafoetida powder (if using). Mix well to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with a small amount of oil.
4. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the skillet and spread it evenly to form a dosa.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is slightly crispy.
6. Flip the dosa and cook for another minute.
7. Serve hot with your choice of accompaniments.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (including soaking time)
White Urad Dal and Spinach Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of protein-rich white urad dal and nutrient-packed spinach, making it a nutritious and delicious addition to your meal. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, yet packs a punch in terms of taste and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup White Urad Dal
– 2 cups Water
– 2 tablespoons Ghee or Vegetable Oil
– 1 Onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Ginger paste
– 1 cup Fresh Spinach leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the urad dal with 2 cups of water until mushy.
3. Heat oil/ghee in a pan, add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add minced garlic and ginger paste, sauté for another minute.
5. Add cooked urad dal, spinach leaves, salt, and lemon juice (if using). Mix well.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
7. Serve hot with steaming rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Vada (Medu Vada)
A popular South Indian snack, Urad Dal Vada is a crispy and flavorful fritter made with split black gram dal, onions, and spices. This recipe yields 12-15 vadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon methi seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the dal into a smooth paste with the chopped onion, garlic, methi seeds, cumin seeds, and salt.
3. Add lemon juice and mix well.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Drop small portions of the dal mixture into the oil, about 1/4 teaspoon each.
6. Fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Urad Dal Vada!
White Urad Dal and Tomato Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew that combines the creaminess of white urad dal with the tanginess of tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal (split and skinned)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the dal with 2 cups of water until soft and mushy. Set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Add chopped tomatoes, cumin powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are tender and the mixture is well combined.
6. Stir in cooked urad dal and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (including soaking time).
Punjabi-Style Urad Dal Tadka
A classic Punjabi dish, Urad Dal Tadka is a flavorful and comforting lentil curry made with split black gram (urad dal) and aromatic spices. This recipe yields a creamy and slightly thickened dal perfect for serving with basmati rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Saute for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked urad dal and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is creamy and slightly thickened.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
White Urad Dal and Coconut Curry
This creamy and comforting curry is a staple in many Indian households. White urad dal adds a subtle nutty flavor, while the coconut milk gives it a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the urad dal with 2 cups of water or broth until soft and mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt; stir well.
5. Stir in the cooked urad dal and coconut milk.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Idli
Urad dal idlis are a popular South Indian breakfast treat, flavored with the richness of urad dal and spices. This recipe yields soft, fluffy idlis that pair perfectly with sambar or chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Coconut oil or ghee, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the dal into a smooth paste using minimal water.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of this blended dal with 2 cups of fresh water until well combined.
4. Add baking soda and yeast (if using), and stir gently to avoid creating foam.
5. Cover the mixture and let it ferment in a warm place for 12-14 hours or overnight.
6. Grease idli molds with coconut oil or ghee, and fill each mold halfway with the fermented batter.
7. Steam the idlis over boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
8. Serve hot with your choice of accompaniment.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including fermentation time)
Spicy White Urad Dal Chaat
This popular Indian street food is a flavorful and spicy snack made with white urad dal, onions, tomatoes, and a hint of tanginess. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the urad dal into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
4. Add the chopped onions, diced tomato, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the onions are translucent.
5. Add the ground urad dal paste and mix well. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Stir in lemon juice and tamarind paste. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Urad Dal and Pumpkin Stew
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew made with white urad dal, pumpkin, and aromatic spices. This recipe is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils and fiber-rich pumpkin, making it an ideal meal for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: ghee or oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and pumpkin cubes to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the soaked and drained dal, coriander powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well.
5. Pour in water to cover the mixture by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is soft and creamy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of ghee, if desired. Enjoy with naan, rice, or roti.
Urad Dal Kootu (South Indian Lentil Stew)
This comforting stew is a staple in many South Indian households, made with split black lentils (urad dal), vegetables, and spices. Urad Dal Kootu is a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal (split black lentils)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and boil the urad dal with 2 cups of water until it’s soft and mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, garlic, and onion; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it’s softened.
5. Add the cooked urad dal, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer the stew for 10-15 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Urad Dal and Mushroom Curry
Experience the comforting combination of creamy dal and earthy mushrooms in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
For the White Urad Dal:
– 1 cup white urad dal (split black gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
For the Mushroom Curry:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the dal with 2 cups of water until mushy. Mash slightly to desired consistency.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and sauté the mushrooms, garlic, and onion until tender.
4. Add cumin, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked dal with the mushroom mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Paratha
This popular Indian flatbread is flavored with the earthy taste of urad dal (split black gram) and spices. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, Urad Dal Parathas are best served hot with a dollop of butter or ghee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine urad dal flour, all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, carom seeds, cumin seeds, and turmeric powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds or until bubbles appear and edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (6-8 parathas)
White Urad Dal and Rice Porridge
This comforting porridge is a popular breakfast or snack option in many Indian households. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the urad dal pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the urad dal with 2 cups of water until mushy.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir-fry until lightly toasted.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Combine the cooked urad dal and rice porridge. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Halwa (Sweet Lentil Dessert)
A popular Indian dessert, Urad Dal Halwa is a rich and creamy sweet dish made with urad dal (split black gram) and ghee. This traditional recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup ghee
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the urad dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the urad dal into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Heat the ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground urad dal and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns light brown (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add the sugar and cardamom powder to the pan and stir well.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the halwa thickens to your liking.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
White Urad Dal and Eggplant Curry
This flavorful curry is a staple of South Indian cuisine, made with split white urad dal (lentils) and tender eggplant. Serve it over rice or with roti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split white urad dal
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure-cook the dal with 4 cups of water until tender. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the eggplant cubes and cook until they start to brown.
5. Stir in the cooked dal and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with roti.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Urad Dal Pakora (Lentil Fritters)
A popular Indian snack, Urad Dal Pakoras are crispy and flavorful fritters made with split black gram lentils (urad dal) and a hint of spices. Perfect for a quick tea-time treat or as an accompaniment to your favorite curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup urad dal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or onion for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Soak the urad dal in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the dal into a smooth paste.
3. Add the baking soda, salt, cumin seeds, and coriander powder to the dal paste and mix well.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dal mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with the spoon.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro or onion if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
White Urad Dal and Sweet Potato Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy dal and sweet potato, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day. The subtle sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with the mild flavor of white urad dal, creating a deliciously balanced dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white urad dal (split skinless black gram)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add sweet potatoes, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the dal and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is creamy and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to comfort your taste buds with these 20 creamy white urad dal recipes! From classic dishes like Dal Makhani and Khichdi, to innovative creations like Spinach Curry and Coconut Curry, this collection has something for everyone. Try making a flavorful Soup or Stew, or opt for savory options like Dosa, Vada, and Idli. You’ll also find sweet treats like Halwa and rice porridges to warm your heart and belly. With these recipes, you’ll never be short on ideas for delicious meals that are sure to become family favorites.