Cholar Dal with Luchi Recipe | Bengali Split Chickpea Lentil & Fried Bread

 

A delicious blend of flavors—Cholar Dal with Luchi is a comforting, festive Bengali meal rich in taste and tradition.

Introduction

Ah, Cholar Dal with Luchi! This beloved Bengali dish is a feast for the senses. The simple yet rich split chickpea dal, spiced with aromatic flavors, is paired perfectly with crispy, deep-fried luchi (Bengali flatbread). It’s a match made in culinary heaven that showcases the magic of traditional cooking with a modern twist.

Cholar Dal, with its smooth consistency and slight sweetness, beautifully absorbs the bold spices, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. Paired with luchi, the crispy texture perfectly complements the creamy dal, giving each bite a burst of warmth and comfort. Whether it’s a grand family gathering or a simple weekend meal, Cholar Dal with Luchi will surely bring a smile to your face and satisfy your taste buds.

From the streets of Kolkata to the kitchens of Bengali households, this dish has remained a symbol of hospitality and festive joy. Let’s explore the charm of Cholar Dal with Luchi together!

History and Significance

The Cultural Roots of Cholar Dal with Luchi:

Cholar Dal with Luchi is more than just a meal—it’s a part of the cultural fabric of Bengal. The dal (lentil) is considered an essential part of Bengali cuisine and is typically prepared on festive occasions like Durga Puja, Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year), and other celebrations. The pairing with luchi—a deep-fried bread—makes this dish a royal treat, usually served with mangsho (meat curry) during grand occasions.

Cholar Dal is made from chana dal (split chickpeas), and the addition of coconut, green chilies, and ginger gives the dal a delightful texture and depth of flavor. The dal itself is often served as a side dish or a main course and pairs exceptionally well with luchi, which adds a decadent crunch and flavor.

Cooking Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients for Cholar Dal

For the Cholar Dal:

• 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
• 1/2 cup grated coconut
• 1/4 tsp hing (asafoetida)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• Fresh coriander for garnish

For the Luchi:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Warm water (as needed to form dough)
• Ghee or oil for frying

Step-by-Step Process

Step-1 Cooking the Cholar Dal:

• Wash and soak the chana dal for about 30 minutes.
• Drain the water. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked dal, 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt. 
• Cook for 3-4 whistles until the dal becomes soft but not mushy.

Step-2 Tempering the Spices:

• Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds, letting them splutter. 
• Add dried red chilies and ginger paste; sauté until the raw smell disappears. 
• Stir in grated coconut and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to lightly brown and infuse flavor.

Step-3 Combining the Dal:

• Add the cooked dal to the tempered mixture, stir well, and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Add garam masala and green chilies, and simmer for an additional minute. Garnish with fresh coriander.

Step-4 Making the Luchi:

• In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add warm water to form a soft dough.
• Let the dough rest for about 15 minutes.
• Roll out small portions of dough into thin, round discs.
• Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan. Fry each disc until golden and puffed up. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Review and Taste:

The Cholar Dal is rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness from the coconut, balanced by the slight heat of the green chilies. The delicate spicing enhances the natural flavor of the lentils, and the texture is both smooth and hearty. When paired with the crispy, puffed-up luchi, this meal becomes a truly comforting, indulgent dish. The combination of flavors—sweet, spicy, and savory—tells a beautiful story of Bengali culinary traditions.

Health Benefits and Nutrition

• High in Protein – The split chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Fiber – Helps promote digestive health and keeps you feeling full.
• Coconut – Provides healthy fats that are good for heart health and maintaining energy levels.
• Balanced with Carbs – The luchi provides quick energy, while the dal offers a good balance of slow-releasing carbs.

Pairing Cholar Dal with Luchi

Choosing the Right Side:

Cholar Dal pairs beautifully with luchi, but for a complete meal, you can serve it with:

• Rice – White or brown rice complements the dal perfectly.
• Bhature – If you love fried bread, bhature is another indulgent option.
• Puri – Puri also works well, offering a slightly thicker texture than Luchi.

Cooking Rice Perfectly:

For the best rice to pair with this dish:

• Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
• Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
• Use a 1:2 ratio (rice to water), bring it to a boil, and then simmer until cooked through.

Special Occasions for Cholar Dal with Luchi

Cholar Dal with Luchi is a beloved Bengali delicacy, often enjoyed during festive and celebratory occasions. This rich and flavorful lentil dish, paired with crispy deep-fried bread, holds a special place in Bengali cuisine and is commonly served on the following occasions:

🎉 Durga Puja

Durga Puja is the grandest festival of Bengal, and no Bengali feast is complete without Cholar Dal and Luchi. During the festival, households and community celebrations serve this dish as part of elaborate bhog (offerings) and festive meals.

🪔 Lakshmi Puja

On Lakshmi Puja, which falls soon after Durga Puja, families prepare a traditional Bengali spread to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Cholar Dal with Luchi is a staple offering, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

🎊 Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year)

The first day of the Bengali calendar, Poila Boishakh, is celebrated with grand feasts, and Cholar Dal with Luchi is a must-have dish on this special day. It is enjoyed alongside other Bengali classics like Mishti (sweets) and Shukto.

🏡 Bengali Weddings

In traditional Bengali wedding feasts, this dish is often served as part of the elaborate lunch or breakfast spread, paired with other rich delicacies like Alur Dom (spiced potatoes), Shada Pulao, and sweets like Rosogolla.

🍂 Nabanna (Harvest Festival)

During Nabanna, the Bengali harvest festival, families come together to celebrate the new rice crop. Although sweets made from new rice dominate the festival, savory delights like Cholar Dal and Luchi also make an appearance on the festive menu.

🎂 Birthdays and Anniversaries

Many Bengali households serve Cholar Dal and Luchi during family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or anniversaries, making it a comforting and festive meal.

🌙 Poush Sankranti (Makar Sankranti)

While sweets like Pithe and Payesh are the highlight of Poush Sankranti, a comforting lunch of Cholar Dal with Luchi often accompanies these wintertime treats.

🏡 Sunday Family Brunch

For many Bengali families, Sundays are a time for leisurely, elaborate brunches. Cholar Dal and Luchi, paired with begun bhaja (fried eggplant) and sweets, make for the perfect comfort meal.

🍛 Bhai Phonta (Bhai Dooj)

Bhai Phonta, the Bengali version of Bhai Dooj, is a day when sisters pray for their brother's well-being. A special meal follows, often including Cholar Dal with Luchi, making the occasion even more heartwarming.

🍽️ Special Guest Hospitality

Bengalis take pride in their hospitality, and when guests arrive, they are often treated to a lavish spread that includes Cholar Dal and Luchi, alongside other traditional dishes like Shukto, Aloo Posto, and Mishti Doi.

🌟 Why Cholar Dal with Luchi for Special Occasions?

✔ Rich and festive flavors – The mild sweetness, nutty aroma, and richness of ghee-roasted lentils make it perfect for celebrations.
✔ Symbol of prosperity – Lentils and deep-fried bread are often associated with abundance and well-being.
✔ Pairs well with sweets – Cholar Dal’s slight sweetness complements Bengali desserts like Sandesh, Rosogolla, and Payesh.
✔ Loved by all generations – From elders to children, everyone enjoys the comforting taste of this classic dish.

Whether it’s a grand festival or a cozy Sunday brunch, Cholar Dal with Luchi brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of festivity to every meal! 🥰🍛

FAQ Section for Cholar Dal with Luchi

What is Cholar Dal?

Cholar Dal is a Bengali-style dish made with split chickpea lentils (chana dal), flavored with aromatic spices like bay leaf, cardamom, and cinnamon, and often garnished with coconut and raisins for a mildly sweet touch.

What is Luchi?

Luchi is a traditional deep-fried, soft, and fluffy Bengali bread made from refined flour (maida). It pairs perfectly with Cholar Dal for a rich and comforting meal.

Can I make Cholar Dal without coconut?

Yes! Coconut adds a mild sweetness, but you can skip it or replace it with slivered almonds for a nutty crunch.

How do I store leftover Cholar Dal?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to adjust the consistency.

Can I freeze Cholar Dal?

Yes, Cholar Dal freezes well! Let it cool completely, store it in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I make my Luchi soft and puffy?

For perfectly puffy luchis:

• Knead a smooth and firm dough (not too soft).
• Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
• Roll evenly and fry in hot oil, pressing gently to puff them up.

Can I make Luchi with whole wheat flour?

Yes, but traditional luchi is made with maida for a lighter texture. Using whole wheat flour (atta) will make it more like poori, which is slightly denser.

What spices enhance the flavor of Cholar Dal?

Bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and cumin add warmth and depth, while ginger and green chilies provide a mild heat.

Can I make Cholar Dal in a pressure cooker?

Yes! Pressure cook chana dal for 2-3 whistles or until soft but not mushy. This speeds up the cooking process while maintaining the right texture.

What dishes pair well with Cholar Dal besides Luchi?

• Steamed Basmati Rice – A classic, comforting combination.
• Jeera Rice – Adds a subtle cumin flavor.
• Paratha or Roti – For a healthier, whole-wheat alternative.

Is Cholar Dal vegan?

Yes! Simply cook it with plant-based oil instead of ghee.

How can I make Cholar Dal creamier?

Mash a small portion of the cooked dal or add a spoonful of coconut milk for a silkier texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Cholar Dal is naturally gluten-free. However, Luchi is made with refined flour, so for a gluten-free alternative, pair it with rice or gluten-free flatbreads.

Can I cook Luchi in an air fryer?

Luchi is traditionally deep-fried, but you can try an air fryer version by brushing it with oil and cooking at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes. It won’t puff up the same way, but it’s a healthier option.

How do I prevent Luchi from absorbing too much oil?

• Fry in hot oil (not warm) to prevent excessive absorption.
• Drain excess oil on paper towels immediately after frying.

Conclusion:

Cholar Dal with Luchi is a true Bengali comfort food, combining the richness of deep-fried bread with the subtly spiced sweetness of lentils. Whether you’re enjoying it for a festive occasion or a cozy weekend meal, this duo promises warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it! 💛🍛

📖 Reputable Source Links

🥣 Health Benefits & Nutrition

• Benefits of Chana Dal – Healthline
• Why Lentils Are a Superfood – WebMD
• Is Deep-Fried Food Always Unhealthy? – Harvard Health
• Coconut in Indian Cooking: Health & Flavor – Cleveland Clinic
• Ghee vs. Oil: Which is Healthier? – Medical News Today

🍽️ Bengali Cuisine & Traditional Recipes

• Exploring Bengali Cuisine – NDTV Food
• Must-Try Dishes from Bengal – The Hindu
• Why Spices Matter in Bengali Cooking – Saveur

✨ Explore More Recipes from My Blog

🍛 Related Bengali Dishes

1️⃣ Prawn Malai Curry – Creamy Bengali Seafood Delight 🦐🥥
2️⃣ Baingan Bharta – Smoky and Flavorful Eggplant Mash 🍆🔥
3️⃣ Rajma Masala – Hearty Kidney Bean Curry 🫘🍛
4️⃣ Litti Chokha – Traditional Bihari Delicacy 🌿🥔

🥖 Indian Breads to Pair with Cholar Dal

5️⃣ Jowar Bhakri – Simple & Wholesome Flatbread 🌾🥙
6️⃣ Mooli Paratha – Radish-Stuffed Indian Flatbread 🥕🥖
7️⃣ Egg Bhurji Wrap – Scrambled Eggs Wrapped in Flatbread 🥚🌯

🍚 Rice-Based Recipes for Pairing

8️⃣ Mangalorean Prawn Ghee Rice – Aromatic & Flavorful 🦐🍚
9️⃣ Konkani Fish Pulao – Coastal Indian Delight 🐟🍛
🔟 Kesari Pongal – Sweet South Indian Treat 🍚🥄

🍬 Sweet Treats for a Complete Meal

1️⃣1️⃣ Gulab Jamun – Classic Indian Sweet 🍩🍯
1️⃣2️⃣ Coconut Burfi – Traditional Indian Dessert 🥥🍬
1️⃣3️⃣ Sakkarai Pongal – A South Indian Festive Sweet 🍚🥄

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🛍️ Kitchen Essentials & Recommended Products

🍽️ Cooking Essentials

✅ Premium Indian Cookware Set – Perfect for traditional Indian dishes.
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✅ Masala Dabba (Indian Spice Box) – Keep your spices organized.
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✅ Stainless Steel Tadka Pan – Essential for tempering spices.
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✅ Non-Stick Paratha Tawa (Griddle) – Perfect for making Luchi & Parathas.
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🧑‍🍳 Cooking Tools & Ingredients

✅ Electric Rice Cooker – Cook perfect rice for your dal every time.
👉 [Buy it here]

✅ Pressure Cooker (Stainless Steel) – Speed up cooking time for dals.
👉 [Get it here]

✅ Bengali Panch Phoron Spice Mix – The essential Bengali five-spice blend.
👉 [Find it here]

🍛 Serve Your Meal in Style

✨ Traditional Indian Thali Set – Perfect for serving authentic meals.
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