Method

1. Heat a kadai or heavy-bottom pan on medium heat.
2. Add oil. Once hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.
3. Add cumin seeds, hing powder, and crushed garlic. Sauté until the garlic turns lightly golden and aromatic.
4. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and turn mushy.
6. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Mix well and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
7. Add the soaked chana dal and jaggery. Mix thoroughly so the dal gets coated with the spices.
8. Add water little by little, stirring well.
9. Cover and cook until the chana dal becomes tender but still retains a slight bite. Avoid overcooking into a mushy texture.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Dal Kanda Recipe with jowar roti or bhakri.

Recipe Notes:

• Soak chana dal for at least 4–5 hours to ensure even cooking.
• Do not overcook the dal; a slight bite gives this chana dal onion curry its authentic texture.
• Goda masala provides traditional Maharashtrian flavor and aroma.
• Adjust water depending on whether you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency.
• This Maharashtrian chana dal recipe tastes even better after resting for a few minutes.