Mah Chane ki Dal – 5 Comforting Langar Wali Recipes

Name: Mah Chane ki Dal - Langar wali Dal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup black gram lentils (Mah Chana); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 ripe tomatoes, diced; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1-2 green chilies, chopped (to taste); 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; Salt to taste; 4 cups water; 2 tablespoons ghee or oil; Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

June 11, 2025

Updated:

June 11, 2025

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Imagine a warm, inviting bowl of Mah Chane ki Dal- Langar wali Dal, wafting aromas that dance around your kitchen like a well-rehearsed ballet. The earthy lentils mingle with spices, creating a comforting hug for your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in nostalgia and warmth, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and filling.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful dal at a community gathering. The rich flavors and creamy texture instantly transported me to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where laughter and love were served alongside every meal. It’s the kind of dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul—ideal for sharing with friends or family during festive occasions or simply on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mah Chane ki Dal- Langar wali Dal is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Its rich flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
Visually stunning, the deep golden color makes it a standout dish on any dining table
Versatile enough to pair with rice, roti, or even as a standalone meal, this dal fits any occasion effortlessly

I still chuckle every time my cousin declared after one bite that he could “swim in this dal.” That was quite the compliment coming from him, especially since he usually sticks to his pizza!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Black Gram Lentils (Mah Chana): Look for whole black gram lentils; they provide rich flavor and texture.
Onion: Use finely chopped onions for sweetness; they caramelize beautifully in this recipe.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add acidity and balance to the dish; choose ripe ones for best results.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: A must-have; it infuses aromatic depth into your dal.
Green Chilies: Adjust according to your heat preference; they bring a lively kick.
Spices (Cumin, Turmeric, Coriander): These spices are essential; they add warmth and complexity to the dish.
Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color as garnish.
Ghee or Oil: Use ghee for authentic flavor or oil if you’re looking for a lighter option.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Soak the Lentils: Start by soaking 1 cup of black gram lentils in water for about 4 hours. This helps them cook evenly and become super tender.

Sauté Your Base: In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown and fragrant.

Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste along with 1-2 chopped green chilies. Cook until fragrant—your kitchen will smell like pure joy.

Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Toss in 2 diced tomatoes along with 1 teaspoon each of cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Cook until tomatoes break down into a lovely sauce.

Add Lentils and Water: Drain soaked lentils and add them to the pot along with 4 cups of water. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; simmer until lentils are soft—about 30-40 minutes.

Finish with Garnish: Once cooked through, stir in salt to taste and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves before serving hot. Enjoy!

With each step taking you closer to that heartwarming bowl of Mah Chane ki Dal- Langar wali Dal, you’ll be amazed at how simple yet satisfying this dish can be!

You Must Know

Mah Chane ki Dal, also known as Langar wali Dal, is a comforting dish that warms both the heart and stomach
Its rich flavor comes from slow cooking, which melds spices beautifully
This dish not only nourishes but also brings people together, just like a warm hug

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The best way to cook Mah Chane ki Dal is to soak the lentils overnight for maximum tenderness. Begin by sautéing onions and spices, followed by adding soaked lentils and water for simmering perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with extra vegetables or your favorite spices. A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten flavors immensely, making it even more delightful.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Mah Chane ki Dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To perfect your Mah Chane ki Dal, remember that fresh spices create vibrant flavors
Always taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices
Pair it with rice or naan for a comforting meal that everyone will love

Cooking Mah Chane ki Dal always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingles with delicious aromas, creating unforgettable memories around the dinner table.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with Mah Chane ki Dal?

Serve it with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal experience.

Can I make Mah Chane ki Dal vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly without any dairy ingredients.

How long does Mah Chane ki Dal take to cook?

Cooking usually takes about 45 minutes after soaking lentils overnight for best results.

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