Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India with this mouthwatering Chicken Dhansak recipe that promises to revolutionize your home cooking! This isn't just another chicken dish - it's a rich, hearty fusion of tender chicken, protein-packed lentils, and a symphony of aromatic spices that will make your kitchen smell like a traditional Indian restaurant. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food adventurer, this from-scratch recipe will turn you into a Dhansak master in just over an hour!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g chicken, cubed
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak them in water for about 20 minutes. This will help them cook faster.
- In a large pot or pressure cooker, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of the garlic and ginger disappears.
- Now, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot along with the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt to taste. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes break down and become soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the tomato mixture is ready, add the cubed chicken to the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pot. Stir everything together, then add enough water to cover the lentils and chicken, about 4 cups. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes. If using a regular pot, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and chicken are fully cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, check the consistency of the dhansak. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Chicken Dhansak hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. It pairs well with steamed rice or naan. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Dhansak!
Tips
- Ingredient Preparation is Key: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly and soak them before cooking to ensure faster, more even cooking.
- Spice Freshness Matters: Use fresh, high-quality spices like turmeric and cumin for the most authentic flavor profile.
- Cooking Method Flexibility: While a pressure cooker speeds up the process, a regular pot works perfectly - just allow extra simmering time.
- Consistency Control: Don't hesitate to adjust water levels to achieve your desired sauce thickness.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully meld together.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
