The iconic Nepali dish, Dal Bhat, is a staple in many Himalayan households. This hearty combination of lentils (dal), rice (bhat), and a variety of vegetables or meats is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse regional variations, Dal Bhat has become an integral part of Nepali cuisine.
In this article, we’ll explore the many flavors and textures that Dal Bhat has to offer. From classic combinations like turmeric lentils and ghee, to more adventurous pairings like chana dal with mustard seeds and curry leaves, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your mealtime routine, these 20 authentic Dal Bhat recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Classic Nepali Dal Bhat with Turmeric Lentils
A staple dish from Nepal, this hearty dal bhat is a comforting combination of turmeric-infused lentils and flavorful rice. Served with a side of fried vegetables or pickles, it’s a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Optional: fried vegetables or pickles for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and rinse the lentils, then transfer them to a large pot with 4 cups of fresh water.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the cooked lentils and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal reaches desired consistency.
7. Serve over cooked white rice, with fried vegetables or pickles on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Masoor Dal Bhat with Cumin and Garlic
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional Indian dal bhat with a spicy kick from cumin and garlic. A perfect blend of flavors to warm your senses!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the dal with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the blended dal mixture to the pan and stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over steaming basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yellow Moong Dal Bhat with Ghee and Coriander
This traditional Indian dish is a comforting blend of nutritious yellow moong dal, flavorful spices, and aromatic coriander. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein-rich goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow moong dal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked dal, 2 cups of water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is tender.
3. While the dal cooks, heat the ghee in a small pan over medium heat. Add the coriander seeds and let them sizzle for 1 minute.
4. Once the dal is cooked, mash it slightly with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to desired consistency.
5. Stir in the coriander-ghee mixture into the dal and serve hot. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dal Bhat Tarkari with Seasonal Vegetables
Dal Bhat Tarkari is a hearty and comforting Nepali dish that combines the goodness of lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on this beloved meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium-sized carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 small cabbage, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Chopped cilantro or scallions 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 diced potatoes and cook until they’re slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the grated carrot and chopped cabbage to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain the lentils and add them to the pan with the vegetables. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through.
5. Serve the Dal Tarkari over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Chana Dal Bhat with Mustard Seeds and Curry Leaves
This popular North Indian recipe is a staple dish that pairs well with naan or rice. Chana dal bhat is a flavorful, comforting meal made with split chickpeas, mustard seeds, and curry leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 4-5 curry leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, garlic, and tomatoes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chana dal and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the mustard seeds and curry leaves. Let them cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Add the chana dal, salt, and 1 cup of water to the pan. Stir well and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with naan or rice, garnished with chopped onions, garlic, and tomatoes if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Dal Bhat with Pickled Radish and Green Chili
This Nepalese-inspired recipe combines the comforting goodness of lentil-based dal (stew) with flavorful basmati rice, topped with tangy pickled radish and spicy green chili. A perfect blend of textures and tastes to warm your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 1/2 cup pickled radish (store-bought or homemade)
– 2-3 green chilies, sliced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the lentils with 4 cups of water until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add cumin, salt, and cooked lentils to the pan; stir well.
5. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve dal over rice with pickled radish and sliced green chili on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Dal Bhat with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Experience the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple and nutritious recipe. Tomato Dal Bhat is a popular Nepalese dish that combines the richness of lentils, the warmth of spices, and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges, 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 pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes and cook until they break down and the mixture thickens.
5. Add the soaked lentils and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice (bhat) and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Tadka Dal Bhat with Fried Onions
This classic Indian dish is a staple comfort food, made even more aromatic and delicious with the addition of fried onions. In this recipe, we’ll combine the creamy goodness of dal (lentils) with the nutty flavor of tadka (tempering spices) and serve it with fluffy basmati rice and garam masala-spiced potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups basmati rice
– Garam masala, for serving (optional)
– Fried onions (recipe below), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and fry until fragrant.
3. Add onion and cook until lightly browned.
4. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Fry for 1 minute.
5. Serve dal with basmati rice and garam masala-spiced potatoes.
Fried Onions:
– Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
– Add thinly sliced onions and fry until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
– Drain on paper towels and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dal Bhat with Saag (Mustard Greens)
Dal Bhat is a staple dish in Nepalese cuisine, and adding saag (mustard greens) gives it an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. This recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the perfect combination of rice, lentils, and greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 bunch mustard greens (about 4-6 leaves), washed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils with water until mushy. Season with cumin, coriander, and salt.
2. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onion, and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add mustard greens to the pan and cook until wilted.
4. Serve the dal (lentil mixture) over cooked rice, topped with the saag (mustard greens).
5. Drizzle with ghee or vegetable oil for added flavor.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Black Lentil Dal Bhat with Himalayan Spices
This hearty recipe combines the comforting warmth of black lentils with the bold flavors of Himalayan spices, served atop a flavorful rice dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked lentils and 2 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Serve the dal (lentil mixture) over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dal Bhat with Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower)
Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepalese meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), steamed rice, and a side of spicy potato and cauliflower curry (Aloo Gobi). This recipe combines the three components to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
For Dal:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
For Aloo Gobi:
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook dal according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add potatoes and cauliflower; cook until tender.
4. Season with cumin, turmeric, and salt.
5. Serve dal with steamed rice and Aloo Gobi.
Cooking Time:
– Dal: 20-25 minutes
– Aloo Gobi: 15-20 minutes
Dal Bhat with Bhuteko Bhat (Fried Rice)
Dal Bhat is a staple dish in Nepal, typically served with a variety of accompaniments. In this recipe, we’ll explore the combination of dal, bhat, and bhuteko bhat for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– Soy sauce and chili flakes, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions with 4 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute.
4. Mix cooked rice with soy sauce and chili flakes (if using).
5. Heat oil in another pan and scramble the mixed vegetables.
6. Combine the cooked lentils, fried rice, and scrambled vegetables.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Dal Bhat with Achar (Nepali Pickle)
In Nepal, Dal Bhat is a comforting staple that combines the simplicity of lentil soup (dal) with steamed rice (bhat). Adding a tangy touch of homemade pickle (achar) takes this meal to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Homemade achar (Nepali pickle) or store-bought equivalent
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 cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked lentils and 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
5. Serve dal over cooked rice, accompanied by a side of achar (Nepali pickle).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dal Bhat with Fried Fish and Lemon Wedges
This Nepalese-inspired dish combines the comforting warmth of dal bhat with the crispy freshness of fried fish, all tied together with a squeeze of lemon. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well), cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the cooked lentils and season with salt.
4. Prepare the fish by coating each piece in flour. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Serve the dal bhat with fried fish and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Dal Bhat with Mushroom Curry and Fresh Coriander
This recipe combines the flavors of dal (lentil soup), bhat (steamed rice), and a savory mushroom curry, all finished with a sprinkle of fresh coriander. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For Dal Bhat:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– Salt, to taste
For Mushroom Curry:
– 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Serve the mushroom curry over steamed rice, accompanied by dal (lentil soup).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Dal Bhat with Eggplant Bharta (Roasted Eggplant Mash)
A classic Nepalese comfort food, this recipe combines flavorful Dal Bhat with the smoky richness of roasted eggplant. A perfect meal for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
For Dal Bhat:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
For Eggplant Bharta:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Dal Bhat according to package instructions or boil lentils with 4 cups water until tender.
2. Roast eggplant in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and collapsed.
3. Mash roasted eggplant in a bowl with chopped onion, garlic, and salt.
4. Serve Dal Bhat with Eggplant Bharta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Dal Bhat with Chicken Curry and Basmati Rice
This hearty dish is a staple in Nepalese cuisine, combining creamy lentils (dal), flavorful chicken curry, and aromatic basmati rice. It’s a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils with water and spices until mushy.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and chicken until browned.
3. Add tomatoes, cumin, coriander, and turmeric; cook until the mixture thickens.
4. Serve the chicken curry over basmati rice, accompanied by the creamy dal.
Cooking Time:
– Dal: 20-25 minutes
– Chicken Curry: 15-20 minutes
– Basmati Rice: 15-20 minutes
Dal Bhat with Spinach and Paneer
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional Dal Bhat with the nutritious additions of spinach and paneer (Indian cheese). A hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add cumin seeds and spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
4. Drain and add soaked lentils to the pan, along with water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in paneer cubes and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot over basmati rice (bhat) and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dal Bhat with Pumpkin Curry and Coconut Milk
A comforting and flavorful one-pot meal from Nepal, this recipe combines creamy dal (lentil soup) with a rich pumpkin curry and coconut milk.
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 Pumpkin Curry:
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Cook the dal according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add pumpkin, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Serve the dal with the pumpkin curry spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dal Bhat with Mutton Masala and Steamed Rice
This traditional Nepalese dish combines the comforting flavors of lentil soup, aromatic mutton masala, and fluffy steamed rice. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1 pound mutton or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 teaspoons Mutton Masala powder (available at Indian grocery stores)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic, cumin, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mutton pieces and Mutton Masala powder. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve the lentil soup (Dal) with steamed rice and mutton masala on top.
Cooking Time:
– Dal: 20 minutes
– Mutton Masala: 15-20 minutes
– Steamed Rice: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Experience the rich flavors of Nepal with these 20 authentic Dal Bhat recipes. From classic Turmeric Lentils to Spicy Masoor Dal and Yellow Moong Dal, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique variations like Chana Dal with Mustard Seeds and Curry Leaves, Tomato Dal with Fresh Herbs and Lemon, and Garlic Tadka Dal with Fried Onions. Enjoy popular pairings such as Aloo Gobi, Bhuteko Bhat, and Mutton Masala, or try innovative combinations like Mushroom Curry and Spinach and Paneer. With this collection of recipes, you’ll be transported to the Himalayas with every delicious bite!
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