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Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani

Slow-simmered black lentils and kidney beans in a rich, creamy North Indian gravy, perfect for cosy weeknight meals.

540 minPrep: 480 minCook: 60 minNorth IndianVegan
dallentilsslow cookedcomfort food

Method

  1. 1

    Soak urad dal and kidney beans overnight, then rinse well.

  2. 2

    Pressure cook with water until very soft and creamy.

  3. 3

    Blend tomatoes into a smooth purée.

  4. 4

    Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf.

  5. 5

    Add onion and cook until lightly golden.

  6. 6

    Add garlic, green chillies; cook briefly.

  7. 7

    Stir in tomato purée, chilli powder, and nutmeg; cook until thick and glossy.

  8. 8

    Add cooked lentils with their cooking liquid and additional water.

  9. 9

    Simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring often.

  10. 10

    Stir in oat cream and kasuri methi.

  11. 11

    Cook until creamy and rich. Finish with coriander.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup urad dal, rinsed
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • 100 ml oat cream
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi
  • 1 tin kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cloves
  • 2 green cardamom pods
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chillies, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • a pinch of grated nutmeg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, increase the amount of oat cream.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
  • Adjust spice levels according to your palate.
  • Pairs beautifully with naan or rice.

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