Chana Dal is a beloved dish in the Hare Krishna tradition, cherished for its simplicity and nutritional value. This hearty lentil dish, made from split chickpeas, is often prepared with loving devotion and offered to Krishna. It is a staple in many Hare Krishna temples and is enjoyed by devotees as a comforting and nourishing meal.

Chana Dal is typically served with rice or chapatis, and it pairs beautifully with various subji (vegetable) preparations. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also ensures a balanced meal by providing a complete protein, aiding in weight management and overall health.
Serving Suggestions
Chana Dal pairs wonderfully with rice or chapatis, and is often enjoyed alongside a flavorful subji. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Steamed Rice: A simple and classic pairing that allows the flavors of the dal to shine.
- Chapatis: Whole wheat flatbreads that complement the rich texture of the dal.
- Vegetable Subji: A side of mixed vegetables or a specific vegetable curry to add variety and nutrition to the meal.
These accompaniments can also be served as part of a larger meal during festivals and gatherings, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Bhakti Thought
Chana Dal is more than just a dish; it is a symbol of love, devotion, and the joy of sharing. By preparing and offering this dish to Krishna, we engage in the sacred practice of bhakti, transforming a simple act of cooking into a spiritual experience. May your kitchen be filled with the blessings of Krishna, and may your heart be ever devoted to His loving service.
PrintChana Dal
Chana Dal is a delightful dish enjoyed by many devotees and visitors to Hare Krishna temples worldwide. This hearty and flavorful lentil curry is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a divine offering. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 – 6 1x
- Category: Dals
- Method: Kadhai
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup chana dal
- 4 cups water (for pressure cooking the dal)
- 3 tbsp peanut oil (or preferred oil preference)
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1½ tsp jeera (cumin seeds)
- ½ tsp hing (asofoetida)
- 2 tbsp ginger green chilli paste (or finely chopped ginger and finely chopped green chillis)
- 1–2 cups chopped tomatoes or tomato puree (blended tomatoes)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1–2 tbsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1–2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves (chopped cilantro)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (preferably fresh)
Instructions
- Pressure Cook the Dal: Rinse the chana dal thoroughly under running water. In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed dal and 4 cups of water. Cook until the dal is soft and fully cooked, usually about 3-4 whistles. Once done, let the pressure release naturally.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a large pan, heat the peanut oil and ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle until they turn golden brown. Add the hing and sauté briefly.
- Add Aromatics: Add the ginger green chilli paste to the pan and sauté until fragrant. Then add the chopped tomatoes or tomato puree, turmeric, and red chilli powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Combine with Dal: Add the cooked chana dal to the pan. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.
- Season and Garnish: Add salt, garam masala, and kasoori methi to the dal. Stir well and let it cook for another few minutes. Finally, add the chopped coriander leaves and fresh lemon juice. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Serving: Serve the chana dal hot with rice or chapatis, accompanied by a tasty subji preparation.
Notes
When cooking at home, using a pressure cooker significantly reduces the cooking time for the dal, making it soft and perfect for this dish.
Adjust the spice levels to your taste, especially if serving to children or those sensitive to heat.
Fresh lemon juice adds a wonderful tangy flavor to the dal, enhancing its overall taste.
The same seasoning base can be used to prepare other lentil dishes, making it a versatile recipe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3.7g
- Sodium: 451mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12.4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 27.3g
- Fiber: 7.8g
- Protein: 7.7g
- Cholesterol: 43mg