Maah Di Dal
An authentic vegetarian recipe from Punjab, India

Cook Time
8 hours
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
EasyCategory
VegetarianIngredients
For 4 servings
300g Whole black urad dal (sabut urad)
2piece Onion, finely chopped
2piece Tomatoes, pureed
30g Ginger-garlic paste
80ml Ghee
10g Red chilli powder
5g Cumin seeds
6g Garam masala
60ml Fresh cream
15g Fresh coriander
10g Salt
11 ingredients needed
💡 Pro Tip: Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare this authentic dish
Soak whole urad dal overnight in cold water.
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Pressure cook drained urad dal with salt for 6–8 whistles until completely soft and slightly mushy.
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Heat ghee in a heavy pan. Add cumin seeds and let splutter.
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Add chopped onions and fry until deep golden, about 12 minutes.
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Add ginger-garlic paste and cook 3 minutes.
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Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates, about 10 minutes.
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Add red chilli powder and salt. Mix well.
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Add cooked dal to the masala. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, adding water if needed.
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Add garam masala and fresh cream. Simmer 5 more minutes.
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Finish with a drizzle of ghee. Garnish with coriander.
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Chef's Tips
Maah Di Dal is the traditional Punjabi whole black lentil preparation — the precursor to the famous Dal Makhani.
Long, slow simmering after combining dal and masala is what creates the velvety texture.
In Punjabi households, this is cooked overnight in a clay pot or slow cooker for the creamiest result.
The more you stir during simmering, the more the dal breaks down and thickens.
About This Dish
Maah Di Dal is a traditional vegetarian dish from Punjab, India. This authentic recipe provides exact measurements for cooking 4 servings.
- Maah Di Dal is the traditional Punjabi whole black lentil preparation — the precursor to the famous Dal Makhani. - Long, slow simmering after combining dal and masala is what creates the velvety texture. - In Punjabi households, this is cooked overnight in a clay pot or slow cooker for the creamiest result. - The more you stir during simmering, the more the dal breaks down and thickens.
Category
Vegetarian
Cook Time
8 hours
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
Easy