Nepali Dal Bhat or Dahl Bhat, is a dish made of lentils and rice.
It is considered to be the national dish of Nepal. One can see how this comforting combination of flavors and heat, would be perfect on a cold day.
The rice or bhat is either boiled or steamed. It is often served in the middle of the dish and surrounded by the dal/lentils and perhaps some other curries, achar’s or chutney’s.
Nepalese eat this dish at least once a day. It is considered to be a well balanced meal. Lentils come in different colors and have good health benefits. This one was made with red lentils
This is easy to make and the dal has all the flavors of Nepalese cuisine. Enjoy!
Nepali Dal Bhat (Lentils and Rice)
This is a very common recipe and meal in Nepali, perfect for a cold winter day. Depending on how much energy you need is how many bhats you order. A comfort food indeed.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 onion chopped finely
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 " piece of ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 cup red lentils washed
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 2 cups cooked white rice to serve with dal.
Instructions
- Heat the ghee or oil in a large frying pan and cook the onions until translucent but not brown.
- Turn the heat to low and add in the garlic, ginger, crushed coriander seeds, red chili powder and turmeric. Stir to combine for about 3 minutes or so.
- Add in the red lentils and mix well with the onion mixture.
- Add in the water and bring it to a boil add in the salt and reduce heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir in the fresh cilantro and remove from heat.
- Serve with white boiled or steamed rice
- Enjoy
