Recipies

Dal Bhat Tarkari (दाल भात तरकारी)

About Dal Bhat Tarkari (दाल भात तरकारी)

Dal Bhat Tarkari is the quintessential Nepali meal, a staple eaten across the country, often twice a day. It's not just food; it's a cultural icon representing the heart of Nepali cuisine and daily life. The dish is a combination of lentil soup (dal), steamed rice (bhat), and a cooked vegetable curry (tarkari), often served with various side dishes like pickles, yogurt, or meat.

Picture of Dal Bhat Tarkari

History

The history of Dal Bhat Tarkari is deeply intertwined with Nepal's agricultural practices and resource availability. Rice cultivation has been prevalent in Nepal for centuries, particularly in the fertile Terai region. Lentils, another essential component, are a good source of protein, crucial in a traditionally vegetarian-leaning diet. The combination of these basic staples, supplemented with seasonal vegetables, emerged as a practical and nutritious meal. Over time, it has become a symbol of Nepali identity and resilience, representing both sustenance and tradition. The specific variations of dal, bhat, and tarkari vary from region to region, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of the country's many ethnic groups. While the basic concept remains consistent, each family and community might have its own unique approach to seasoning, ingredients, and accompaniments.

Fact 1

Dal Bhat Tarkari is considered the national dish of Nepal.

How to prepare?

Lentils (Masoor dal, or other) - 1 cupRice - 2 cupsMixed Vegetables (potatoes, cauliflower, beans, etc) - 3 cups choppedOnion - 1 medium, choppedGarlic - 2 cloves mincedGinger - 1 inch, mincedTomato - 1 medium, choppedTurmeric powder - 1/2 tspCumin powder - 1/2 tspCoriander powder - 1/2 tspChili powder (optional) - 1/4 tsp or to tasteSalt - to tasteCooking Oil - 2 tbspWater - as needed

Learn step by step to prepare Dal Bhat Tarkari

  • 1
    Wash the lentils thoroughly and cook with 3 cups of water and turmeric powder until soft. Mash slightly.
  • 2
    Meanwhile, prepare the rice as per your usual method.
  • 3
    For the tarkari, heat oil in a pan, add onion and cook till golden brown. Add ginger and garlic and saute for a minute.
  • 4
    Add chopped tomatoes and cook till they are soft and pulpy.
  • 5
    Add the mixed vegetables, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder (if using), and salt. Mix well.
  • 6
    Add a little water if needed and cook till the vegetables are tender.
  • 7
    Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding water if needed and cook for some time.
  • 8
    Serve the cooked rice with dal, tarkari, and any additional side dishes, such as pickles or yogurt.
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