Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Wash Lentils

   Wash 150g of split red lentils using cold water until the water runs clear.

2. 2.Add Lentils and Water to Pan

   In a pan, add the washed dhal and 550ml of cold water.

3. 3.Start Cooking

   Turn the hob on high heat.

4. 4.Add Garlic

   Add 2-3 cloves of chopped garlic to the pan.

5. 5.Add Turmeric (Do Not Mix)

   Add 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder. Do not mix, as this will prevent the dhal from softening properly.

6. 6.Reduce Heat

   Once the dhal starts to boil, reduce the heat to low.

7. 7.Skim Froth

   Carefully skim off any froth that forms on the surface, without mixing the dhal.

8. 8.Season with Salt

   Add salt to taste.

9. 9.Increase Heat for Evaporation

   When most of the water has nearly fully evaporated, increase the heat to high.

10. 10.Continuous Mixing

    Start continuously mixing the dhal whilst still on high heat to ensure it doesn't burn.

11. 11.Achieve Dry Texture

    Keep mixing for approximately 5 minutes until the dhal is dry with no water and starts sticking to the sides of the pan.

12. 12.Cool Dhal

    Transfer the cooked dhal into a bowl and allow it to cool down.

13. 13.Fry Chillies

    In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of mustard oil and add 4-5 red dry chillies.

14. 14.Darken Chillies

    Keep mixing the chillies for about 1 minute until they turn a dark red in colour.

15. 15.Crush Chillies

    Using your hands or a pestle and mortar, break up the fried chillies and set them aside.

16. 16.Prepare Onions

    In a mixing bowl, add 1 very finely sliced medium red onion.

17. 17.Soften Onions

    Add a pinch of salt to the onions and mix them together with your hands to help soften them slightly.

18. 18.Combine Dhal and Onions

    Add the cooled, cooked dhal to the bowl with the onions.

19. 19.Add Coriander

    Add 3-4 tbsp of chopped fresh coriander.

20. 20.Initial Mixing

    Using your hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together.

21. 21.Add Crushed Chillies

    Add the crushed fried chillies to the mixture.

22. 22.Add Mustard Oil

    Add 3-4 tbsp of mustard oil (Shorishar tel).

23. 23.Final Mix

    Mix all ingredients together one final time.

24. 24.Serve

    The Dhal Bhorta is now ready to eat. Serve hot with piping hot white rice.