Best Chainsoo recipe Uttarakhand

Recipe

Best Chainsoo recipe: Thick and Hearty Black Gram Lentil Curry from Uttarakhand

Description

Chainsoo is a traditional dish from Uttarakhand, India, known for its rich, earthy flavour and hearty texture. This thick curry is made from black gram lentils (urad dal). These are roasted, ground, and then cooked with a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and asafoetida. Chainsoo is typically served with rice or roti. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the region’s culinary heritage.

Ingredient

• 1 cup black gram lentils (urad dal)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (Hing)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder (to be adjusted to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 2 green chillies, chopped. (adjust to taste)
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped.
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• For garnish, fresh coriander leaves, chopped.

Instruction

1. To toast the black gram lentils:

• Toast the black gram lentils until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes, in a dry frying pan over medium heat.
• Allow the lentils to cool slightly. Grind the lentils to a coarse powder in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

2. Prepare the tempering:

• Heat the oil or ghee over a medium heat in a deep-frying pan.
• Add cumin and asafoetida and allow to splutter.
• Add the spices and the vegetables.
• Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder and coriander powder to the oil and stir for a short while.
• Add the chopped green chillies and tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

3. Cook the curry:

• Add the crushed lentils to the frying pan and stir well.
• Add enough water to cover the lentils and stir to combine.
• Bring to the boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are tender and the curry thickens.

4. Finish and serve:

• Stir in the garam masala. Season to taste.
• Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with rice or roti.

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Spice grinder or mortar and pestle and mortar.

Nutrition Information

Suitable For Diet

• Vegetarian Diet
• Gluten free

Tips and Tricks

• Adjust the number of spices to taste.
• Add more water to achieve the desired consistency if the curry is too thick.
• For an extra boost of flavour, roast the spices before adding the lentils.

Garnishing and Serving

• For extra flavour and a pop of colour, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

How to store

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Warm up gently on the stove top or in the microwave oven.
• Made with black gram lentils, Spiced Urad Dal is a delicious vegan Indian dish. It’s a simple yet flavourful recipe. It’s perfect for a weeknight or weekend meal.

Conclusion

Bringing the authentic flavours of Uttarakhand to your table, Chainsoo is a rich and hearty curry. Its earthy flavour and wholesome ingredients make it a satisfying and comforting meal. Try this recipe and let us know by commenting!

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