A Classic Bengali lentil dish ! Cholar Dal.

A classic Bengali lentil dish! Here's a simple recipe for Bengali-style Cholar Dal:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup split chickpeas (chana dal)
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2-3 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons ghee (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, green chilies, ginger paste, and garlic paste until onions are translucent.
3. Add the soaked dal, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is tender.
6. If using ghee, add it and stir to combine.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve with steaming hot rice.

Tips:

- Use split chickpeas (chana dal) for authentic flavor.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies to your desired level of spiciness.
- Add a splash of water if the dal seems too thick.
- Traditionally cooked in mustard oil for distinct flavor; use vegetable oil if unavailable.

Optional variations:

- Add 1-2 teaspoons of Bengali five-spice (panch phoron) for extra flavor.
- Mix in some chopped vegetables (e.g., carrots, potatoes) for added texture.
- Serve with a side of fried vegetables (e.g., brinjal, potatoes) for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Bengali Cholar Dal!
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