Dal Bhat Tarkari

Dal Bhat Tarkari—a classic dish that represents the soul-warming essence of Nepali comfort food. Picture a plate adorned with steamed rice (bhat), lentil soup (dal), and a medley of seasonal vegetables (tarkari), creating a symphony of flavors that reflect the diverse and rich culinary traditions of Nepal.

Ingredients:

For the Dal:

• 1 cup split yellow lentils
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

For the Tarkari:

• Assorted seasonal vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots, peas)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

For the Bhat:

• 2 cups white rice
• Water for cooking

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dal:
   1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly. In a pot, combine lentils, chopped onions, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add water and cook until the lentils are soft and the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Tarkari:
   1. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped green chilies, assorted vegetables, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Prepare the Bhat:
   1. Rinse the white rice and cook it in water until it is fluffy and tender.
4. Serve Dal Bhat Tarkari:
   1. On a plate, serve a portion of steamed rice (bhat), lentil soup (dal), and the seasoned vegetables (tarkari) side by side. Embrace the Nepali tradition of combining these elements on your plate.