Chainsoo (Uttaranchal recipe - urad dal)

• Urad dal (whole) - 1 cup


• Oil - (preferably mustard) : 1/2 cup


• Garlic - 4 to 5 cloves


• Cumin seeds - 1 tsp


• Black pepper - 4 nos


• Red chillies (whole) - 4 to 5


• Asafetida - 1 pinch


• Dry coriander powder - 1/2 tsp


• Red chilli powder - 1/2 tsp


• Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp


• Water - 3 cups


• Salt - to taste


• Garam Masala - 1/2 tsp

Procedure

1. Roast urad dal for 3-5 minutes until it becomes aromatic. Grind the roasted seeds to a coarse powder.


2. Heat oil in Karhai. Add garlic cloves, cumin seeds, red chillies, black pepper, and hing (asafetida)


3. Add dal powder and roast for 1-2 minutes. Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, salt and water. Bring to a boil.


4. Cover and cook till the dal becomes very soft. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.


5. Garnish with garam masala and coriander leaves.