Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy Indian lentil dish made from whole black lentils (urad dal) and kidney beans (rajma), cooked with butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. This indulgent dish is simmered for hours on low heat to achieve a creamy texture and to allow the...

Dal Makhani recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
2hr 0min
Total Time
2hr 15min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Main Ingredients

  • whole black lentils (urad dal)
    whole black lentils (urad dal)
    1cup
  • kidney beans (rajma)
    kidney beans (rajma)
    1/4cup
  • water
    water
    4cups
  • butter
    butter
    2tbsp
  • fresh cream
    fresh cream
    1/2cup
  • oil
    oil
    2tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tsp
  • ginger-garlic paste
    ginger-garlic paste
    1tbsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • red chili powder
    red chili powder
    1tsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    1/2tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1tsp
  • small cardamoms
    small cardamoms
    4
  • bay leaves
    bay leaves
    2
  • chopped onion
    chopped onion
    1
  • chopped tomato
    chopped tomato
    1
  • cube of butter
    cube of butter
    1

How to make Dal Makhani

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Soak the whole black lentils and kidney beans overnight in water.

  2. Step 2

    Drain and rinse the lentils and kidney beans before cooking.

Cooking

  1. Step 1

    Pressure cook the lentils and kidney beans with 4 cups of water until soft and tender.

  2. Step 2

    Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

  3. Step 3

    Add small cardamoms, bay leaves, and ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.

  4. Step 4

    Add chopped onions and sauté until they're translucent.

  5. Step 5

    Add tomato, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, kasuri methi, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.

  6. Step 6

    Add the cooked lentils and kidney beans to the pan. Top it with coriander leaves and butter. Mix well and simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

  7. Step 7

    Add fresh cream. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.

  8. Step 8

    Garnish with fresh cream and coriander leaves.

Garnishing and Serving

  1. Step 1

    Garnish with fresh cream and chopped cilantro before serving.

  2. Step 2

    Serve hot with rice, naan, or roti.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

170.0kcal (8.5%)

Protein

6.9g (13.84%)

Carbs

14.2g (5.17%)

Sugars

1.1g (2.16%)

Healthy Fat

5.7g

Unhealthy Fat

6.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For an even creamier texture, mash some of the cooked lentils and beans before adding them to the pan.

  2. Simmering the dal for a longer time enhances the flavor and richness of the dish.

  3. Use fresh cream for garnishing to add a touch of indulgence.

  4. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

FAQS

  1. Can I use canned kidney beans instead of dried ones?

    Yes, you can use canned kidney beans. However, reduce the cooking time as they are already cooked.

  2. Can I make Dal Makhani vegan?

    Yes, substitute butter and cream with vegan alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.

  3. How long should I soak the lentils and beans?

    Soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and soften properly.

  4. What can I serve with Dal Makhani?

    Dal Makhani pairs well with rice, naan, roti, or even paratha.

  5. Can I freeze Dal Makhani?

    Yes, you can freeze Dal Makhani. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving.

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Abhishek Boke

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