Dhokar Dalna Recipe: A Delicious Bengali Dish with Lentil Cakes in Spicy Gravy

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Dhokar Dalna is a classic Bengali dish that features lentil cakes (dhoka) cooked in a flavorful gravy. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Here’s how to make Dhokar Dalna:

Ingredients:

For the Dhoka (Lentil Cakes):

  • 1 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram)
  • 2-3 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or any vegetable oil)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • 2-3 dried red chilies
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 large tomato, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Dhoka (Lentil Cakes):

  1. Wash and soak the chana dal in enough water for 4-5 hours.
  2. Drain the soaked dal and grind it into a smooth paste along with chopped green chilies, ginger paste, turmeric powder, salt, and sugar. Use minimal water, if needed.
  3. In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing).
  4. Add the dal paste to the pan and cook it on low heat, stirring continuously.
  5. Cook until the mixture thickens, comes together, and leaves the sides of the pan. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
  6. Grease a flat plate or tray and transfer the cooked dal mixture onto it. Spread it evenly and allow it to cool and set for about an hour.
  7. Once set, cut the dal mixture into small diamond or square-shaped pieces (dhoka).

2. Cooking the Dhokar Dalna:

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil (or any vegetable oil) in a deep pan or kadai.
  2. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, and dried red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
  3. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
  5. Add finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
  6. Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful base.
  7. Add about 2 cups of water and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes.

3. Adding the Dhoka:

  1. Carefully add the prepared lentil cakes (dhoka) to the simmering gravy.
  2. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the dhoka to soak in the flavors of the gravy.
  3. Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more water if needed.

4. Garnishing and Serving:

  1. Garnish Dhokar Dalna with fresh coriander leaves.
  2. Serve it hot with steamed rice.

Tips:

  • Dhoka can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • You can customize the spice level to your preference by adjusting the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.

Dhokar Dalna is a delightful Bengali dish that showcases the rich and intricate flavors of Bengali cuisine. Enjoy this classic recipe as a part of a traditional Bengali meal or as a special treat anytime!

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