A true North Indian favourite, dal makhani is known for its velvety texture and smoky richness. The slow-cooked lentils blend beautifully with butter, cream, and spices, making it a dish perfect for special dinners. Paired with naan or steamed rice, it’s comfort food with elegance on the plate.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1/2 cupWhole black gram (sabut urad dal), soaked overnight
Rinse the soaked black gram and kidney beans. Add them to a pressure cooker with enough water and cook until the pressure releases 8–10 times. This ensures the lentils turn soft and creamy, making them easy to blend into the curry later.
Description - Step 2
Prepare the Base
Heat butter and oil together in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle until fragrant. The mixture of butter and oil prevents the butter from burning and sets a rich base for the curry.
Description - Step 3
Cook Tomato Masala
Add red chilli powder and tomato puree to the pan. Stir well and cook until the oil separates from the masala. This step is crucial as it builds depth of flavour and removes the raw taste of tomatoes.
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Add Dal to Masala
Stir in the pressure-cooked lentils and kidney beans. Mix thoroughly so the masala coats every grain. Add some water if needed to adjust consistency, then let the curry simmer gently.
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Slow Simmering
Simmer the dal on low heat, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking helps the spices infuse into the lentils, giving dal makhani its signature velvety texture and smoky flavour.
Description - Step 6
Finish with Cream and Spices
Add garam masala and fresh cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. The cream balances the spices and enhances the richness. Finally, top with homemade white butter before serving.