The humble dal bhat, a staple dish in many Indian households. This simple yet satisfying combination of lentils and rice is a comfort food that never goes out of style. And why should it? With its rich, comforting flavors and nutritious goodness, dal bhat is the perfect meal to warm your belly and lift your spirits. But don’t just stick to the same old recipe – with our collection of 18 delicious dal bhat recipes, you can take this classic dish to new heights.
From spicy masoor dal to creamy moong dal, we’ve got a dal bhat for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly day or a flavorful twist to spice up your meal routine, our collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with your dal bhat game, and discover the joy of this beloved dish in new and exciting ways!
Classic Nepali Dal Bhat with Ghee
Dal Bhat is a staple dish in Nepalese cuisine, typically served for breakfast or as a main meal. This classic recipe combines flavorful lentil curry (dal) with steamed rice and clarified butter (ghee), making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cumin, turmeric, and salt to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils and 2 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve the dal over steamed rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Masoor Dal Bhat with Turmeric
This traditional Indian recipe combines the comforting flavors of masoor dal (red lentils) with the warm, earthy tones of turmeric and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup masoor dal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Drain and add the soaked lentils to the pot. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over steaming hot basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlicky Yellow Dal Bhat with Cumin
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of yellow dal (lentil soup) with the earthy goodness of cumin and a hint of garlic, all served over fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split yellow lentils
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked basmati rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and cumin; sauté until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils and 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve over cooked basmati rice and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato-infused Dal Bhat with Mustard Seeds
Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this simple and nutritious recipe for Tomato-Infused Dal Bhat with Mustard Seeds. This popular combination is elevated by the addition of ripe tomatoes, adding a burst of juicy sweetness to the classic dal bhat pairing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes are fully broken down.
4. Add the soaked lentils to the pan, along with water as needed to achieve a thick dal consistency.
5. Stir in the mustard seeds; cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot over basmati rice (bhat) and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Moong Dal Bhat with Coconut Milk
Moong dal bhat is a popular North Indian dish that combines the comfort of creamy lentils with the warmth of fluffy rice. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split moong dal (green gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the drained moong dal, salt, and 2 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the creamy moong dal over cooked white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Dal Bhat Medley
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal from North India, this medley combines the comfort of lentils with the freshness of vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and coriander; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the potatoes, carrot, and tomato; stir well. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Add the lentils, salt, and 2 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through.
5. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice (bhat) and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fragrant Jeera Dal Bhat with Basmati Rice
This comforting Indian-inspired meal combines the earthy flavors of turmeric-infused lentils, fluffy basmati rice, and a hint of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the lentils and combine with cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a large pot. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
5. Heat oil in a small pan and sauté cumin seeds until fragrant. Serve over the dal and rice.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Bhutte Ka Dal Bhat with Corn
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional Indian comfort food, combining the flavors of smoky roasted corn and spicy dal (lentil curry) with fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a satisfying lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 cup basmati rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils in water until tender, then mash.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mashed lentils to the pan and stir well.
4. Grill or roast the corn ears over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
5. Serve the dal with basmati rice and grilled corn.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Dal Bhat Power Bowl
This recipe combines the nutritious goodness of spinach and dal (lentils) with the comforting warmth of bhat (rice). It’s a flavorful and filling bowl that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked dal (red or yellow lentils)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cooked basmati rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the cooked dal, spinach leaves, and cumin. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.
5. Serve the mixture over the cooked basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tadka Dal Bhat with Crispy Onions
A classic North Indian dish, Tadka Dal Bhat is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the goodness of lentils, rice, and crispy onions. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Crispy onions (recipe below)
Crispy Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt; stir well.
4. Drain and add the soaked lentils to the pan, along with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. For crispy onions, heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the onion slices until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Punjabi-style Dal Bhat with Butter
Savor the comforting flavors of Punjab with this classic recipe, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– 1 cup cooked basmati rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add cumin, salt, and soaked lentils to the pot. Stir well and add 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. To serve, place cooked basmati rice on a plate, followed by a scoop of the dal. Top with a pat of softened butter and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Quick Pressure Cooker Dal Bhat
Dal bhat is a staple Nepalese dish that combines comforting lentils with fluffy rice. This pressure cooker version simplifies the cooking process, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or vegetable oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and add them to the pressure cooker with water, onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
3. Add the uncooked rice to the pressure cooker and stir well.
4. Close the lid and cook on low pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Open the pressure cooker and fluff the dal and rice with a fork. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of ghee or vegetable oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Quinoa Dal Bhat Alternative
A nutritious twist on the traditional Indian dish, this quinoa and dal bhat alternative is a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, and cooked black beans. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and mix with the dal mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dal Bhat with Pickled Mango on the Side
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of Dal Bhat, a popular Indian dish, with the tangy sweetness of pickled mango. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
For the Dal:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
For the Bhat:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
For the Pickled Mango:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add cumin and cooked lentils; stir well. Season with salt.
4. Serve over cooked rice.
5. To make pickled mango, combine diced mango, vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (not including prep time)
South Indian-style Dal Bhat with Curry Leaves
This classic South Indian recipe combines the comfort of a hearty dal (lentil soup) with flavorful rice and fragrant curry leaves. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice
– Fresh curry leaves, for garnish
– Optional: sambar powder or garam masala, for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and blend the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add grated ginger, cumin, and salt. Cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the blended dal and stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until desired consistency.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with fresh curry leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dal Bhat Tarkari with Seasonal Vegetables
A comforting Nepali meal that combines the simplicity of dal (lentil soup) with the heartiness of bhat (rice) and tarkari (seasonal vegetables). This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils in water until mushy.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and potato until they are tender.
3. Add cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry with vegetables for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked lentils with rice mixture and season with salt.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Protein-packed Chana Dal Bhat
Chana dal bhat is a popular Indian dish that combines the protein-rich goodness of chana dal (split chickpeas) with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat bread. This recipe packs a punch of nutrients and energy, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chana dal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat bread pieces (or naan)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chana dal and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the chana dal with 2 cups of water until mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the cooked chana dal, cumin, and salt to the pan. Mix well.
5. Serve the chana dal mixture over whole wheat bread pieces or naan.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dal Bhat with a Twist of Lemon and Coriander
Experience the vibrant flavors of India with a zesty twist on this beloved comfort food. This recipe combines the warmth of coriander and lemon with the comforting familiarity of dal bhat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked basmati rice (for serving)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the lemon juice. Serve over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 delicious dal bhat recipes for every occasion! From classic Nepali dishes to spicy and flavorful variations, this collection has something for everyone. Try the creamy Moong Dal Bhat with coconut milk or the protein-packed Chana Dal Bhat for a nutritious meal. For a twist, add pickled mango on the side or try the South Indian-style dal bhat with curry leaves. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.