Makhani Daal (Buttery Lentils)

Makhani Daal (Buttery Lentils)
  • PREP TIME
    25 mins
  • COOK TIME
    25 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    6 hrs 50 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    36

Indulge in the creamy decadence of Makhani Daal, a symphony of lentils simmered in a rich, buttery tomato-based sauce. This classic Indian dish is perfect as a comforting soup, a delectable side with rotis, or served over fluffy rice. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    52 g
  • Cholesterol
    6 mg
  • Fiber
    21 g
  • Protein
    19 g
  • Saturated Fat
    2 g
  • Sodium
    71 mg
  • Sugar
    6 g
  • Fat
    6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Soak the Lentils and Beans: In a large bowl, combine the black lentils, split chickpeas, and red kidney beans. Cover with several inches of cool water and let soak for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. (Soaking time: 6-12 hours)

02

Step

Pressure Cook the Lentils: Drain the soaked lentil mixture and transfer it to a pressure cooker. Add fresh water to cover the lentils. Bring the pressure cooker to high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions and cook until the lentils are very soft. This usually takes about 20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally. (Cooking time: 20 minutes + natural pressure release)

03

Step

Prepare the Aromatic Base: While the lentils are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced ginger, minced garlic, and cumin seeds. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown, about 3 minutes. (Cooking time: 3 minutes)

04

Step

Create the Tomato Masala: Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and break down, about 2 minutes. Stir in the ground coriander, garam masala, red chile powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant. (Cooking time: 3 minutes)

05

Step

Combine and Finish: Pour the cooked lentil mixture into the skillet with the tomato masala. Stir well to combine. Add the butter, yogurt, and chopped cilantro. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. (Simmering time: 5-10 minutes)

For a richer flavor, use ghee (clarified butter) instead of vegetable oil.
Adjust the amount of red chile powder to your preferred level of spiciness.
If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the lentils in a regular pot on the stovetop, but it will take longer (about 1-1.5 hours). Ensure the lentils are very soft before proceeding.
Garnish with an extra dollop of butter or a swirl of cream for added richness.

Brayan Dooley

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.5/ 5 ( 12 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (8)
  • Foster Morar

    I loved the depth of flavor in this daal. The spices were perfectly balanced.

  • Hellen Wolf

    The pressure cooker method is a game-changer! So much faster than the stovetop.

  • Harry Swift

    This recipe is fantastic! The lentils turned out perfectly creamy and flavorful.

  • Randall Okon

    I added a bit of cream at the end and it was divine!

  • Kelli Keebler

    Easy to follow recipe and the results were amazing. Thank you!

  • Wanda Bergstrom

    I used ghee instead of butter and it added a wonderful nutty flavor.

  • Phyllis Glover

    This is the best Makhani Daal I've ever made!

  • William Erdman

    My family devoured this! It's definitely going into our regular rotation.

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