Mains

Sailana Dal

With every simmering pot of π’πšπ’π₯𝐚𝐧𝐚 πƒπšπ₯, a piece of history comes alive where food wasn’t just cooked but carefully crafted with love and legacy.

This dal carries the warmth of slow-cooked traditions, infused with aromatic spices and the essence of a bygone era. Thick, hearty, and rich in flavour, it’s a tribute to kitchens that tell stories with every meal. Originating from the royal kitchens of π’πšπ’π₯𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐏𝐚π₯𝐚𝐜𝐞, a historic gem in 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐑𝐲𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐑 , this dish embodies the grandeur of culinary heritage.

A taste of nostalgia, a bowl of heritage this is more than just dal; it’s a journey back in time.

Course Main
Servings 4 persons
Preparation Time 10 minutes + soak time
Cook time 30 minutes

Ingredients for the Sailana Dal
(1 cup = 200 ml; 1 tbsp = 15 ml)

1-2 Bay leaves
2 tsp Cumin seeds
2 Nos Cloves, whole
2 Nos Cinnamon sticks
2 Nos Black elaichi
7-8 Garlic cloves
2 big Onion, sliced
1Β½” piece Ginger, crushed
3-4 tbs Ghee
2 Green chili, chopped
1 tbsp Red Chilli powder
Β½ tsp Turmeric powder
1 tbsp Coriander powder
1 cup Arhar dal (toor)
1Β½ tbsp. Sugar
Salt to taste
1 full No. Lemon juice (Indian sized)
2 cups Water

Instructions for the Sailana Dal

1 Wash and soak the dal for 2-3 hours. Drain and keep aside.
2

Heat ghee in a cooker. SautΓ© the bay leaves, cinnamon, elaichi, cloves.

3

Add in the onions, ginger, garlic and green chilies. SautΓ© the onions on medium flame until it caramelizes.

4

Add in the red chili, turmeric and coriander powder and sautΓ© for 1 minute.

5

Add in the soaked dal along with water. Season with salt. Cover and cook up to 2 whistles.

6

Now open the cooker. If dal is too thick, add a little more water (hot water) and stir dal. Mash it well. the dal should be a little thick in consistency.

7

Add in sugar, salt and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve at once.

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