Delicious Chanar Dalna Recipe: A Bengali Delight You Must Try!

Written by Jessica Lopez.

6 REVIEWS

| 4.5 AVERAGE

Published at 27-11-2022

Edited on 25-03-2025 | 9:17 AM

Main-Course Recipes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Bengali

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6 people

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

30 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes

Fat

12g

Protein

15g

Carbohydrates

40g

Calories

350 kcal

Welcome to the world of authentic Bengali cuisine, where flavors dance and aromas entice! Today, we're diving into the heart of this culinary tradition with a delightful recipe for Chanar Dalna. This comforting dish, featuring soft paneer cubes simmered in a rich, spiced gravy, is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner, Chanar Dalna is not only delicious but also a great way to introduce your loved ones to the vibrant tastes of Bengal.

What sets Chanar Dalna apart is its unique combination of ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. The soft chana (paneer) absorbs the spices beautifully, while the gravy, made with tomatoes, potatoes, and a medley of spices, adds depth and character to the dish. It's often served with steamed rice or luchis, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to bring a taste of Bengal to your table. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a pot of Chanar Dalna that will impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Bengali cooking.

Trust us, once you taste this dish, you'll be coming back for more! Let's get started on this delightful Chanar Dalna recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.

Measurement Units of chanar dalna recipe

200 grams of chana (split chickpeas)

1 teaspoon of turmeric powder

1 teaspoon of red chili powder

1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

2 tablespoons of mustard oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 green chilies, slit

1 teaspoon of ginger paste

1 teaspoon of garlic paste

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step by Step Instructions For chanar dalna recipe

Step - 1

Begin your culinary adventure by gathering the essential ingredients for Chanar Dalna: fresh paneer (chenna), potatoes, tomatoes, green chilies, ginger paste, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and fresh coriander for garnish. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step - 2

Start by preparing the chenna, which is the star of this dish. If you're using store-bought paneer, crumble it into small pieces. If you're making it at home, boil milk, curdle it with lemon juice, and drain the whey. Rinse the curds under cold water and press to remove excess moisture.

Step - 3

Next, peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices beautifully. Set them aside in water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step - 4

In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. This will release their nutty aroma, setting the foundation for the rich flavors to come.

Step - 5

Add the chopped potatoes to the pan and sauté them until they start to turn golden brown. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The aim is to create a slight crust on the potatoes for added texture.

Step - 6

Now, add the ginger paste and green chilies to the pan. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of ginger dissipates. This step infuses the dish with heat and depth, making every bite exciting.

Step - 7

Incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the pan, stirring well. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a delectable base for your curry.

Step - 8

Once the tomatoes are well-cooked, gently fold in the crumbled chenna. Be careful not to break it down too much; you want it to keep some texture. Add a splash of water if the mixture appears too dry, allowing the chenna to absorb the flavors.

Step - 9

Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to meld beautifully with the chenna and potatoes. This is where the magic happens, so don’t rush this step!

Step - 10

Finally, garnish your Chanar Dalna with freshly chopped coriander. Serve hot with steamed rice or luchi for a delightful meal. Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors that showcase the essence of Bengali cuisine.

My Review On chanar dalna recipe

Chanar Dalna is a delightful Bengali dish that showcases the rich flavors of paneer (chenna) and aromatic spices. This recipe balances the creamy texture of the chana with a tangy tomato-based gravy, making it a perfect accompaniment for rice or puris. The secret to a great Chanar Dalna lies in the use of fresh chenna, which adds a soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality to the dish. The spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala, create a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. What I love about this recipe is its simplicity; it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Bengali cuisine. Serve it with steamed rice or warm rotis for a comforting meal that your family will love. Trust me, once you try Chanar Dalna, you'll want to make it a regular part of your culinary repertoire!

Frequently Asked Questions About chanar dalna recipe

What is chana dalna?

Chana dalna is a traditional Bengali dish made from chana dal (split chickpeas) cooked in a flavorful gravy with spices, often including potatoes and tomatoes. It's a comforting vegetarian dish that pairs well with rice or roti.

How do I make chana dalna from scratch?

To make chana dalna, soak chana dal for a few hours, then cook it until soft. Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil, add spices, tomatoes, and cooked dal. Simmer until flavors meld, and finish with fresh coriander.

Can I use canned chana dal for this recipe?

While fresh or dried chana dal is preferred for texture and flavor, you can use canned chana dal. Rinse it well and reduce cooking time, as it's already cooked. Adjust spices accordingly to enhance the dish.

What spices are essential for chana dalna?

Essential spices for chana dalna include cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. These spices create a rich flavor profile that complements the dal and enhances the overall dish.

Is chana dalna vegan-friendly?

Yes, chana dalna is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a healthy, plant-based dish that is perfect for vegans and vegetarians, packed with protein and nutrients.

What can I serve with chana dalna?

Chana dalna pairs well with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of pickles and salad for a complete meal. It's versatile and complements various Indian breads.

How long does chana dalna last in the fridge?

Chana dalna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

Can I add vegetables to chana dalna?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding the dal to the gravy.

What is the nutritional value of chana dalna?

Chana dalna is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Chana dal is a great source of plant-based protein, while the spices and vegetables add antioxidants and nutrients, making it a healthy meal option.

Can I make chana dalna in a pressure cooker?

Yes, making chana dalna in a pressure cooker is efficient. Cook the soaked chana dal with water for 2-3 whistles, then proceed with the gravy preparation. This saves time and ensures the dal is perfectly cooked.

Reviews of chanar dalna recipe

Aditi Sharma

I tried the chana dalna recipe for a family gathering, and it was a hit! The spices blended beautifully, and the texture was perfect. Everyone asked for seconds. Definitely a keeper in my recipe book!

★★★★★

Rahul Mehta

This chana dalna recipe was easy to follow and yielded delicious results. The flavors were rich and comforting. I paired it with rice, and it made for a satisfying meal. Will make it again soon!

★★★★

Simran Kaur

I loved making chana dalna! The step-by-step instructions were clear, and the dish turned out flavorful. I added a bit more chili for heat, and it was perfect. My friends enjoyed it too!

Vikram Singh

The chana dalna recipe was quite good, but I felt it needed a bit more seasoning. Overall, it was a hearty dish, and my family enjoyed it. I might tweak it next time to suit our taste better.

★★★

Neha Gupta

What a delightful recipe! Chana dalna was a new dish for me, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out. The aroma filled my kitchen, and the taste was just as amazing. Highly recommend!

Karan Joshi

I found the chana dalna recipe quite straightforward. It took a bit longer than expected, but the end result was worth it. The flavors were robust, and it paired well with naan. A solid recipe for sure!