Chana Dal

This dal is comes under the "comfort food" category for me. Ma used to make Chana Dal as a treat if we did something great and so I have very happy memories associated with this Dal. Her cooking has a lot of influence of Uttar Pradesh, since she spent her formative years there. It is a very simple recipe where Ginger and Garlic enhance the slightly nutty flavor of the Dal.
Ma would cook the dal for about 2 hours, but I don't have that kind of patience, so I cooked the dal in the pressure cooker. Served with rice or Paratha this is like heaven for the taste buds. Try it, and you will not be disappointed.
Nutrition Info : Chana dal has a low glycemic index so it is good for Diabetics. It is also high in fibre, protein and Zinc.

1 cup Chana dal, cleaned
1" ginger, sliced thin
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
1/4 tsp garam masala powder
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp red chilli powder (you can increase the amount, depending upon your heat comfort)
1 tsp ghee
Salt to taste
Chopped coriander for garnish
Cook the dal + 2 cups water + ginger + turmeric + salt in a pressure cooker till done. Release the steam, remove the cooker cover and on low flame cook for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat and keep aside.
Heat ghee in a small pan and add cumin seeds + garlic. Cook for a minute and add the garam masala powder + red chilli powder. Mix well and pour on the cokked dal. Add the chopped coriander leaves, mix well and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes. (You can add a little water if the dal is thick). Serve hot with Rice / Paratha and a serving of cool Raita. Enjoy !