Chana Dal Pulao is a delicious protein-rich vegetarian dish made with chana dal (split yellow chickpeas) and basmati rice cooked along with the aroma of whole spices. Enjoy with raita and salad.
Rinse the Chana Dal and soak for 1 hour in hot water. You can also soak in regular tap water for 4 hours.
Instant Pot Method
Start the instant pot in SAUTE mode and heat it. Add ghee and all the whole spices. Sauté them for 30 seconds.
Add the onions, ginger and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot. Drain the water from the soaked Chana Dal and add it to the pot. Then add all the spices.
Add water and give it a good stir. Press Cancel and close the instant pot lid with vent in sealing position.
Set the instant pot to RICE mode for 12 mins (low pressure). When the instant pot beeps, quick release the pressure manually.
Add lime juice, and fluff the rice. Garnish with cilantro and Chana Dal Pulao is ready to be served.
Stovetop Pressure Cooker Method
For stovetop pressure cooker, add 2 cups of water and cook for 2 whistles. Let the pressure release naturally.
Stovetop Method
Follow the same steps as in the above method until adding water on medium-high flame.
Add 2 ¼ cups of water for this method. Then let the ingredients come to a boil. Now simmer to low flame and cover the pot with a lid. Cook until the water is completely absorbed.
The Chana Dal Pulao is ready to be enjoyed. Sprinkle lime juice and garnish with cilantro.
Video
Notes
Vegan Variation: Use your favorite plant based oil to make this pulao. Chana Dal Khichdi with Vegetables - You can add vegetables similar to my veg pulao recipe in this pulao as well. eg. green beans, bell pepper, green peas, carrots would all work well.Serving: Serve it alongside with simple yogurt or raita like cucumber raita along with masala papad and your favorite pickle.