Khatti Meethi Dal

A traditional Gujarati-style lentil dish that beautifully balances tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors — made with Bengal gram, tamarind, jaggery, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup Bengal gram (chana dal)
2. 100 gm beetroot (chopped)
3. 50 gm groundnuts
4. 1 tsp mustard seeds
5. ½ tsp cumin seeds
6. 2 dried dates
7. 50 gm jaggery (grated)
8. ½ cup tamarind juice
9. 1 tsp turmeric powder
10. 2 tsp coriander powder
11. 6–7 curry leaves
12. 1 piece cinnamon
13. 2 tsp cloves
14. 1 tsp clarified butter (ghee)
15. 1 tbsp chopped coriander
16. 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
17. A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
18. 2–3 tsp green chilli paste

Instructions

1. Cook the Dal and Vegetables

   • Rinse the Bengal gram thoroughly and add beetroot pieces.
   • Pressure cook the mixture with enough water until both are soft and cooked well.

2. Add Main Flavors

   • Once cooked, transfer to a pot.
   • Add turmeric powder, salt, coriander powder, jaggery, dried dates, tamarind juice, curry leaves, groundnuts, and green chilli paste.
   • Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to blend.

3. Prepare the Seasoning (Tadka)

   • Heat ghee in a small pan.
   • Add asafoetida, cloves, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and a small piece of cinnamon.
   • Let them splutter and release their aroma.

4. Combine and Cook

   • Pour the prepared seasoning over the dal mixture.
   • Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to enhance the taste.

5. Garnish and Serve

   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or roti for a comforting, flavorful meal.