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Introduction
Cholar Dal is a mildly sweet chana dal preparation cooked with coconut, raisins, and aromatic spices. It is a classic festive dish paired with luchis or puris.
Historical Relevance
Cholar Dal has been a part of Bengali temple offerings and festive feasts for centuries. Its slightly sweet flavor sets it apart from other Indian dals, reflecting Bengal’s love for combining sweet and savory.
- Cooking the Dal
Ingredients:
1 cup chana dal
2 cups water
½ tsp turmeric
Instructions:
Boil dal until just tender (not mushy).
Keep aside.
- Tempering
Ingredients:
2 tbsp ghee
1 bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom
2 tbsp grated coconut
1 tbsp raisins
Instructions:
Heat ghee, fry spices and coconut.
Add to dal, simmer with salt, sugar, and raisins.
Pro Tips
Dal should be soft but hold shape.
Balance sugar and salt carefully—it should be subtly sweet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with luchis (deep-fried flatbreads) or kachoris.
Fun Fact
Cholar Dal with luchi is considered a classic Durga Puja bhog dish in Bengal.