Ingredients :
- For the Dhansak Spice Mix: - 2 tablespoons coriander seeds - 1 tablespoon cumin seeds - 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds - 1 tablespoon mustard seeds - 1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns - 1/2 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder For the Dhansak Curry: - 500 grams boneless lamb or chicken, cubed (you can use vegetables for a vegetarian version) - 1 cup yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal), soaked for 30 minutes - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 tomatoes, chopped - 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced - 1-inch piece of ginger, minced - 2-3 green chilies, chopped - 2-3 tablespoons oil - 2-3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) - Salt to taste - Water, as needed For Garnish: - Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Recipe:
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For the Dhansak Spice Mix:
- 1. Dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, and black peppercorns in a pan over low heat until they release their aroma and slightly darken. 2. Allow the roasted spices to cool, and then grind them into a fine powder along with red chili powder and turmeric. This is your Dhansak spice mix.
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For Dhansak Curry:
- 1. Heat oil and ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until they become fragrant. 2. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. 3. Add the meat (or vegetables) and brown them on all sides. 4. Stir in the Dhansak spice mix and cook for a few minutes. 5. Add the soaked and drained yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal) to the pot and mix well. 6. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, and add salt to taste. 7. Cover the pot and let the Dhansak simmer on low heat until the meat (or vegetables) and lentils are tender. This may take 30-40 minutes or more, depending on what you're using. 8. Once everything is cooked through, add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes until they are soft. 9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. 10. Serve Dhansak hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Health Benefits:
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- Dhansak is a rich source of protein, making it a filling and satisfying dish. - The lentils (toor dal) in Dhansak provide dietary fiber and essential nutrients. - The spices used in the Dhansak spice mix offer potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Dhansak is a flavorful and comforting dish that beautifully blends the influences of Persian and Indian cuisines. It's a cherished dish in Parsi cuisine and is enjoyed for its complex flavors and balance of sweetness and spiciness.