Dal na Shak
Lentils with Greens
A comforting and nutritious dish, Dal na Shak is a staple in Bangladeshi households, combining protein-rich lentils with nutrient-dense leafy greens. It's a simple yet flavorful preparation, often seasoned with ginger, garlic, and a hint of chili, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Masoor dal (red lentils), rinsed
- 4 cups Mixed leafy greens (e.g., spinach, mustard greens, fenugreek leaves), chopped
- 3 cups Water
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Ginger, grated
- 2 Green chilies, slit
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or Ghee
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 2 Dried red chilies
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a pot, combine the rinsed masoor dal with 3 cups of water and turmeric powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: Rinsing the lentils removes excess starch. Adjust water quantity based on desired consistency. - 2
While the dal is cooking, heat the oil or ghee in a separate pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and dried red chilies. Let them splutter.
💡 Tip: This tempering (tadka) adds a layer of aromatic flavor to the dish. - 3
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Ensure the garlic and ginger don't burn, as this can make them bitter. - 4
Add the chopped leafy greens and slit green chilies to the pan. Stir well and cook until the greens are wilted, about 5-8 minutes.
💡 Tip: The greens will reduce significantly in volume as they cook. - 5
Pour the cooked dal into the pan with the greens and aromatics. Mix everything together well. Add salt to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - 6
Serve hot with steamed rice.
💡 Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can use a variety of leafy greens, such as spinach, fenugreek leaves (methi), mustard greens, or even a mix.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of vegetable oil for tempering.
- ✓Adjust the number of green chilies according to your spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the tempering for an extra layer of flavor and digestive benefits.
- Include a tablespoon of tomato puree for a slight tanginess.
- For a more substantial meal, add a small amount of diced potatoes or other root vegetables along with the greens.