By Suprita Mitter
June 28, 2024
Cholar Dal is a traditional Bengali lentil dish made with split Bengal gram (chana dal). It is rich, flavorful, and often prepared during festive occasions. The aromatic spices, sweetness from coconut, and the subtle warmth of ginger make this Dal unique.
1 cup chana dal 3 cups water 2 tbsp ghee 1 bay leaf 1-2 dried red chilies 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 tsp fennel seeds 2-3 green cardamom pods 1-2 cloves
1 cinnamon stick 1 tsp grated ginger 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp garam masala 1/2 tsp red chilli powder 1/4 cup grated coconut 2-3 tbsp raisins
In a pot, combine rinsed dal with 3 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook for 25-30 minutes.
In a separate pan, heat the ghee, add the bay leaf, dried red chilies, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, green cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
Add the grated ginger, then stir in the turmeric cumin, coriander and red chilli powders with garam masala. Pour the cooked chana dal into the pan with the tempered spices.
Add salt and sugar. Allow the dal to simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Add grated coconut and raisins.
Serve hot with steamed rice or traditional Bengali luchis (fried bread).