channa dal rice ...

-  channa dal rice  -

This is one of my FAVORITE rice dishes ever!!

I truly believe that healthy food does not have to be boring and flavorless . . .
this one definitely proves my point! :)

 I was originally inspired by several different rice recipes . . .
adding a few touches of my own along the way.

This is such an easy recipe . . .
and it has so many of my favorite ingredients.

It is pure, simple, and has a wonderful mix of textures and flavors . . .

with - cashews . . . channa dal . . . jalapenos . . .
and an amazing mix of spices!!

Channa Dal Rice - Ingredient List . . .

2 cups cooked basmati rice
1/4 cup channa dal
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped cashews
2 jalapeño peppers minced
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon salt
pinch of saffron
1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
2 dried, or 3 fresh curry leaves, or 4 frozen, chopped into small pieces
2 or 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
lemon zest

The Toppings . . .

fresh green onions
lemon zest
fresh coconut
fresh cilantro



To start with measure out each of the ingredients . . .

and then mix the spices in a bowl and set aside.

Make the rice and allow to cool with the lid off.

Boil some water in a pan for the channa dal . . .
take the pan off the heat, add the channa dal, and soak the channa dal for approx 45 minutes . . .

then drain off the water.

On medium-high to high heat - saute the cashews and channa dal

in a little Olive Oil for about 4 to 5 minutes

add in the peppers for a couple minutes . . .

 

and then add in the spices for a couple minutes more . . .

( be sure to stir consistently while allowing time here and there to brown nicely )

Cool it down for a bit and then add the mixture to the cooked rice

along with the lemon zest . . .

and then mix thoroughly . . .
allowing for the rice to obtain a little color from the spices . . .

put into individual serving bowls . . .
and then top it off with some of your favorites toppings . . .



here are a few of mine . . .

crisp green onions . . . fresh coconut . . . tangy lemon zest. . .
and of course - one of my very favorites . . . cilantro!!
 

Now it is time to enjoy your rice - my very favorite part!



Be sure to make an extra batch for leftovers . . .
if you don't - you will wish you had!! :)

 Hope you try this wonderful little rice dish!

until next time . . .

. . . . . . .

food dreams and a kiss . . .
from my kitchen . . . to yours!!

xoxo - liz