Dalma

Introduction

Dalma is a traditional Odia dish made by simmering toor dal with native vegetables like raw banana, pumpkin, and arbi. A staple in Puri’s Jagannath Temple offerings, it celebrates satvik flavors without onion or garlic.

1. Cooking Dal and Veggies Together
   Ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal

• 1/2 cup raw banana (cubed)

• 1/2 cup pumpkin (cubed)

• 1/2 cup arbi (colocasia)

• 1 tsp turmeric

• Salt to taste

• Water as needed
  

Instructions:

• Pressure cook dal with turmeric and chopped vegetables for 2 whistles.

• Lightly mash the dal-veggie mix once cooked.

2. Tempering the Dalma
   Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp ghee

• 1 tsp panch phoron (five-spice mix)

• 2 dried red chilies

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1/2 tsp cumin powder

• Fresh coriander
  

Instructions:

• In ghee, add panch phoron and red chilies.

• Add ginger, cumin powder, sauté briefly.

• Pour over the cooked dal. Simmer 5 minutes.

3. Pro Tips

• Don’t over-mash: Dalma should retain texture.

• Add a pinch of roasted cumin-red chili powder before serving for authentic flavor.

4. Serving Suggestion

• Best served with steamed rice and a dollop of desi ghee.

Source: https://www.archanaskitchen.com/odia-style-dalma-recipe