Bhatt Ki Daal

Bhatt (Black Soybean) known for its high protein and fiber content, black soybeans or Bhatt ki daal has excellent health benefits, including managing diabetes, strengthening bones, lowering blood pressure, healthy digestion, and weight loss. It is a great source of Vitamin E and amino acids which helps in keeping the skin healthy, build muscle, and maintain the health of your hair.
Bhatt ki dal is the organic black soybeans that are cultivated in the high rises of Uttarakhand. Using this humble ingredient, different foods are prepared, where Bhatt ki Dal and Bhatt ki Chudkani/Churdkani are the two most iconic dishes from Kumaoni cuisine.
The difference between the Dal and Chudkani (pronounced as Churkani) lies in the process of preparation. In Churdkani, the lentil is first fried in oil while in Dal, you soak it overnight and temper once cooked. Also, the Churdkani is watery, unlike Dal which is thick in texture.
Dals are a staple diet in Kumaoni cuisine. Usually, the lentils are soaked overnight before cooking. Cooking is mainly done in iron pans or Lohe ki kadai. The taste and composition of the food are enhanced when you cook in iron pans. You would need very less oil, it can withstand high temperatures and you needn’t worry about breaking it as it is heavy.
Ghee is used for tempering as it helps in the digestion of these coarse and fibrous grains. You can always use oil instead of ghee.