Dal in a Jar
Recipe Overview
Overview
This Dal in a Jar recipe is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt gift that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine to your loved ones. The concept of gifting dal is both practical and thoughtful, allowing anyone to enjoy a comforting bowl of dal at their convenience. The recipe emphasizes the importance of spices, which are carefully packed in pouches to ensure freshness and flavor. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes it accessible for those unfamiliar with Indian cooking.
The versatility of this recipe is one of its standout features. You can customize the lentils used, whether you prefer red lentils or yellow moong dal, and adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. The addition of coconut milk or fresh vegetables like sweet potatoes and zucchini can elevate the dish, making it even more nourishing. It’s a great way to introduce someone to the joys of dal, especially if they haven’t tried it before.
I appreciate how the recipe allows for creativity while maintaining simplicity. The use of dried garlic, onion, and chilies adds depth without overwhelming the cook. Plus, the idea of preparing these jars ahead of time is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. Overall, this Dal in a Jar is a delightful way to share the love of cooking and the comfort of a warm meal with friends and family.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Pack all spices and aromatics needed for the Dal in a jar.
Cook lentils in a saucepan or instant pot.
In a skillet, add oil and the contents of the spice bag.
Tip: Add coconut milk for creaminess and flavor variation.
Tip: Incorporate fresh veggies like sweet potato or zucchini for added nutrition.
Add cooked lentils to the spiced oil and mix well.
Tip: Adjust the heat by reducing or eliminating dried chilies.
Tip: Add turmeric while cooking lentils if desired, rather than in the spice pouches.
Take lentils out of the jar, put them in a strainer, and wash well.
Add lentils, water, and salt to a saucepan or instant pot and cook.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the first spice bag.
Add the second spice bag to the oil and mix well for about 30 seconds.
Mix in the cooked lentils and bring to a boil.
Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, lime juice, and cilantro.
Tip: Mash some lentils or add coconut cream for a creamier texture.
Serve the Dal with rice, flatbread, or as a soup.
Tip: Bake garlic and green chilies separately from onions as they dry at different rates.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Dal is a staple in Indian cuisine, often made with lentils and spices.
- •Using dried spices in a jar allows for easy preparation and gifting.
- •Adding coconut milk can enhance the creaminess of the dal.
- •Different types of lentils can be used to create variations of dal.
