Restaurant Style Dal Makhani Handi - Kaaf Foods
Restaurant Style Dal Makhani Handi Recipe

Restaurant Style Dal Makhani Handi

Diff🟡Easy
Prep⏱️20 Mins
Cook⏲️25 Mins
Total45 Mins
Serv🍽️4-5
Cuisine🌍Pakistani
Ingredients
Base & Veggies
Chana Daal (Soaked & 80% boiled)250 g
Cooking Oil / GheeAs required
Green Chilies (Chopped)2 pcs
Ginger-Garlic Paste1 tbsp
Onion (Finely chopped)1 large
Tomato-Chili Puree3 medium tomatoes
Spices & Dairy
Red Chili Powder1 tsp
Turmeric Powder½ tsp
Coriander Powder1 tsp
SaltTo taste
Kasuri Methi1 tbsp
Garam Masala Powder½ tsp
Beaten Yogurt150 g
Fresh Cream½ packet (100 ml)
Water½ to 1 cup
Pro Tip
Do not fully boil the Chana Daal beyond 80% before adding it to the handi masala; otherwise, it will turn mushy when simmered with yogurt and cream. Always finish the dish with fresh cream and a dash of lemon juice for true restaurant-style richness. Use authentic Kaaf Foods™ whole and ground spices to give your handi a deep, aromatic restaurant flavor.
How To Cook
Step 1: Sauté Onion & Ginger-Garlic
Fry green chilies in hot oil, add ginger-garlic paste, then sauté chopped onions until light golden. 10 Mins
Step 2: Add Tomato Paste & Spices
Pour tomato-chili paste, add red chili, turmeric, and coriander powder. Sauté until oil separates. 5 Mins
Step 3: Mix Boiled Chana Daal
Fold in 80% boiled chana daal, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. 5 Mins
Step 4: Add Yogurt & Aromatics
Stir in beaten yogurt until water dries up. Add Kasuri Methi, salt, and garam masala. 7 Mins
Step 5: Simmer with Cream & Garnish
Pour ½ cup water and fresh cream. Simmer on low flame, garnish with ginger, green chilies, cilantro, and lemon. 5 Mins
Video Guide

Watch the recipe recommended video.

🎥 Video Credit: Shahbaz Food Secrets
Nutrition Facts
CALORIES
per serving (approx. 300g)
380 kcal
Fat
18g
Carbs
42g
Fiber
9g
Sugar
5g
Protein
14g
Calorie Distribution
Protein 15% Carbs 44% Fat 41%
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should Chana Daal be only 80% boiled initially?
Boiling it fully will cause the lentils to disintegrate completely into a paste when simmered further in the masala and yogurt gravy.
Can I use butter instead of cooking oil for Dal Makhani?
Yes! Using butter (makkhan) or a mix of butter and oil gives it the authentic "Dal Makhani" creamy texture and rich flavor.
Why is yogurt added after the tomatoes?
Yogurt adds a mild tangy depth and acts as a base to thicken the gravy alongside cream.
Can I make this recipe without fresh cream?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cream with thick milk malai (dairy cream) or cashew paste, though fresh cream gives the best restaurant finish.
How long should Chana Daal be soaked before boiling?
Soak Chana Daal for 2 to 3 hours in lukewarm water to ensure even cooking and soft texture.
What can I serve with Dal Makhani Handi?
It tastes incredible with garlic naan, butter tandoori roti, or boiled jeera rice.
Why do I need to add water with ginger-garlic paste?
Adding a splash of water prevents the garlic paste from instantly burning in hot oil.
Can I prepare this recipe using Masoor or Moong daal?
This specific recipe is optimized for Chana Daal, but the same spice base works well with mixed lentils.
How do I store leftover Dal Makhani?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk on the stove.
Why choose Kaaf Foods™ spices for traditional handi dishes?
Traditional handi recipes rely on robust, unadulterated spices. Kaaf Foods™ supplies pure, chemical-free ground spices and herbs.
Where can I buy pure Kaaf Foods™ spices online?
Order authentic whole and ground spices online directly from kaaffoods.com.
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