Dhansak (Indian Stir-Fried Lentils and Meat)

Dhansak is a popular Indian dish made with lentils, meat, and a variety of spices. It’s often served in the state of Gujarat, where it’s a staple food.

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Ingredients

Proteins

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 250g lamb or beef, cut into small pieces

Spices and Aromatics

• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
• Salt, to taste

Lentils and Grains

• 250g split red lentils (masoor dal)
• 2 tablespoons brown rice flour
• 2 tablespoons semolina (rava)

Oils and Ghee

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter), for serving

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Dhansak Sauce

Mix the following:

• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt, to taste

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Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the Spice Paste

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they’re lightly browned. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for another minute.

2. Cook the Lentils

In a separate pot, cook the lentils with 2 cups of water over medium heat until they’re tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Sear the Meat

Heat oil in a pan over high heat. Add the meat pieces and sear them until they’re browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.

4. Make the Dhansak Sauce

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Pour in the water, tomato puree, cumin, coriander, tur

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Generated time: 2026-03-09 19:41:19