🌟 Restaurant-Style Dal Makhani Recipe | Authentic Punjabi Black Dal

Dal Makhani is a rich, creamy, and aromatic lentil-based curry that’s one of the most iconic dishes in North Indian cuisine. A star attraction in Indian restaurants, Dal Makhani is made using whole black urad dal (black lentils) and rajma (kidney beans) simmered slowly with butter, cream, and spices until luxuriously velvety. If you’re craving a truly authentic Punjabi dal makhani recipe, this restaurant-style version is everything you need.

📝 Ingredients for Dal Makhani (Serves 4)

🟠 For Pressure Cooking Lentils:

• Whole black urad dal (black gram) – ¾ cup

• Rajma (kidney beans) – ¼ cup

• Water – 4 cups

• Salt – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

🟡 For the Gravy:

• Butter – 3 tbsp

• Oil – 1 tbsp

• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tbsp

• Green chili – 1, slit

• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped

• Tomato puree – 1 cup (about 2 medium tomatoes, blended)

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp

• Garam masala – 1 tsp

• Kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) – 1 tsp, crushed

• Fresh cream – ¼ cup

• Salt – to taste

• Water – 1 cup (as needed)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step: Dal Makhani  Restaurants Style

✅ Step 1: Soak and Cook the Lentils

1. Rinse and soak the urad dal and rajma overnight or for at least 8 hours.

2. Drain and transfer to a pressure cooker. Add salt, turmeric, and 4 cups water.

3. Pressure cook for 6–7 whistles or until both the dal and rajma are very soft. Mash a few lentils with the back of a spoon to check doneness.

✅ Tip: The secret to creamy dal makhani is well-cooked lentils and slow simmering.

✅ Step 2: Prepare the Masala Base

1. Heat butter and oil in a heavy-bottomed kadai or pan.

2. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell goes away.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté till golden brown.

4. Pour in the tomato puree, mix well, and cook on medium heat for 5–6 minutes until the oil separates.

5. Add red chili powder, salt, and cook for another minute.

✅ Step 3: Simmer the Dal

1. Add the cooked dal and rajma to the masala. Stir well.

2. Add 1 cup water to adjust consistency.

3. Let the dal simmer on low heat for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add garam masala, crushed kasuri methi, and fresh cream. Mix gently and simmer for 5 more minutes.

5. For that authentic restaurant-style finish, add a small cube of butter just before serving.

🫓 What to Serve with Dal Makhani?

🍛 Best Occasions to Serve Dal Makhani

• Indian Weddings & Functions – A royal favorite

• Diwali or Holi Meals – Completes the festive thali

• Weekend Family Dinners – Slow-cooked comfort food

• Restaurant-Style Dinner at Home – Impress guests

• Buffet or Potluck Parties – A crowd-pleaser dish

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

✅ Dal Makhani is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and slow-digesting carbs, making it filling and satisfying.

💡 Tips to Make the Best Dal Makhani

• Soak lentils overnight for creamy texture.

• Mash some dal while cooking to naturally thicken the consistency.

• Use homemade tomato puree for better flavor than store-bought.

• Add charcoal smoke (dhungar) for a smoky restaurant touch.

• Always use butter and cream moderately to balance taste and health.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make dal makhani without cream?

Yes, substitute cream with milk and a tsp of ghee, or use cashew paste for a vegan version.

Q2: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Pressure cook dal and rajma on high for 30 minutes, then follow gravy steps in sauté mode.

Q3: Can I freeze dal makhani?

Yes! It stays fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw, reheat, and add a splash of cream before serving.

🏁 Conclusion: A Royal Punjabi Comfort Dish

This restaurant-style dal makhani recipe is your ultimate guide to recreating that velvety, buttery taste at home. Ideal for festive Indian dinners, vegetarian curry lovers, or anyone wanting a rich and hearty meal. Once you master this, you’ll never crave takeaway again!

Whether you’re a fan of creamy dals, love a good Indian curry with naan, or just want to explore authentic Punjabi cuisine, this dal makhani recipe is a must-try!