Kulthi ki dal is a traditional Indian lentil recipe made using roasted and broken horse gram. This wholesome dal is known for its earthy flavour, simple ingredients, and health benefits.
Often enjoyed during winter, kulthi dal is warming, easy to digest, and perfect with steamed rice or roti.
Whether you call it kurthi dal or horse gram dal, this recipe is comforting, nutritious, and can be made throughout the year. (step-by-step-recipe-video)
About Kulthi ki Dal Recipe:
In our home, we call this kurthi ki dal, and it holds a very special place in my heart.
My mother always made it during winters in our hometown. I still remember those foggy days, the warmth of the kitchen, the smell of dal roasting in the pan, and the quiet comfort that came with it.
This wasn’t just food, it was Maa’s way of wrapping us in care and warmth.
Now in Bangalore, as the weather turns chilly and it starts to rain, I find myself going back to this same kulthi ki dal recipe.
There’s something about its simplicity that brings peace. It’s light on the stomach, yet satisfying, Perfect for when you want something filling but not heavy.
Though traditionally made in winter due to its warming nature, kulthi dal can be enjoyed throughout the year. It’s one of those dishes that brings both nourishment and comfort in every bite.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this warm and rustic dal with plain steamed rice and a spoon of ghee.
It also tastes lovely with soft roti and simple salad.
Storage Suggestion:
Store in a clean container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat with little water if needed, as the dal thickens after cooling.
Pro Tips:
Always roast and lightly grind the dal for better texture and digestion.
Heat mustard oil well before adding spices to reduce its sharpness.
Adjust water based on how thick or soupy you like your dal.
Why You Should Make this Recipe:
Made from horse gram, a powerhouse of protein and fiber
Helps in weight loss, digestion, and detox
Known to reduce inflammation, cold & cough, and even support kidney health
Warming in nature (garam taseer), perfect for monsoon and winter
Best enjoyed with steamed rice or roti
Looking for Some More Recipes Like this:
Subscribe for More Deliciousness!
I hope you liked this recipe and are excited to try this Kurthi Dal Recipe!
Subscribe to my email list to ensure you’re the first to get these recipes. You’ll receive updates and new recipes delivered straight to your inbox.
It’s the best way to keep up with all the tasty things happening here. Don’t miss out. Subscribe today and join our community of food lovers!
Basic Ingredients Used in this Recipe:
Kulthi Dal: This is the main ingredient. It’s packed with protein, iron, and fiber. Horse gram is known for its warming nature, helps in weight loss, and supports kidney health and digestion. Using lightly roasted and crushed kulthi dal also makes it easier to cook and digest.
Tomatoes: They add natural tanginess and help balance the earthy flavour of the dal. Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Turmeric Powder: A natural anti-inflammatory spice. It gives the dal a beautiful colour and helps boost immunity.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavour. It also helps break down the dal while cooking.
Mustard Oil: Used for tadka. It has a strong, traditional flavour that brings out the rustic taste of this kulthi dal recipe.
Cumin Seeds (Jeera): Adds warmth and supports digestion. A common spice in traditional Indian dals.
Dry Red Chillies: Brings a light heat and smokiness to the dal. You can adjust based on your spice preference.
Kulthi ki Dal
Ingredients
- 500 gm Horse gram Kulthi dal
- 4 Tomatoes roughly chopped
- Water as required
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp Mustard oil
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds Jeera
- 2 Whole dry red chillies
Instructions
- Dry roast the horse gram (kulthi dal) in a pan on medium flame until it turns aromatic and slightly darker.
- Let it cool down completely.
- Once cooled, pulse grind the dal coarsely, don’t make it powder, just break it slightly.
- Sieve it using a strainer to remove the powdery bits (you want only the broken dal, not flour-like particles).
- Wash the broken dal properly, strain the excess water.
- In a pressure cooker, add washed dal, tomatoes, Salt to taste, turmeric powder and water.(just enough to cover and cook the dal)
- Cook for 5-6 whistles or until done.
- If not fully cooked, close the lid and cook again for 1–2 more whistles. (add more water if needed)
- In a small tadka pan, heat 2 tbsp mustard oil until it starts to smoke lightly.
- Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
- Add dry red chillies and fry for a few seconds.
- Pour the hot tadka into the cooked dal.
- Serve hot with plain rice or roti. A spoonful of ghee on top makes it even more comforting.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Question About this Recipe:
What is kulthi dal?
Kulthi dal or horse gram dal is a traditional Indian lentil known for its health benefits and rustic taste. It’s often eaten during winters.
Is this the same as kurthi dal?
Yes! In many regions, it is also called kurthi dal — the same ingredient with regional name changes.
Can I make this dal in summer too?
Yes, you can eat it all year round. Just have it in moderation during peak summer, as it is warming in nature.
Can I skip the tadka?
Tadka adds flavour, but if you’re avoiding oil, you can skip it. The dal still tastes great with just salt and turmeric.
My Recommended Product:
If you regularly cook dals at home, I highly recommend using a good-quality pressure cooker.
It saves time, cooks the dal evenly, and locks in all the flavour. I personally use this cooker and it makes the process so much easier.
I only recommend products I’ve personally used or truly believe in for home cooking.
You can even check out my PAGE on Amazon, where you will find my favorite kitchen tools, Appliances, Accessories, and more HERE.
Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a small commission.
Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases.
I am an independent blogger and the reviews are done based on my own opinions. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
- Hard Anodised Body
- Controls Spillage, Deep Lid
- Highest Safety-Metallic Safety Plug
- Comfortable Handles
- Controlled Gasket Release System
- 5 Years Warranty
- Colour-Black, Capacity-5L
- Made In India
You Might Also Want to Try:
If you enjoyed this kulthi ki dal, here are some more comforting recipes using dal that you’ll love:
Chana Dal Sabzi | Ramruch | Traditional Bihari Style Recipe
Masoor Dal
Cholar Dal Recipe
Restaurant Style Dal Makhani Recipe
Odia Dalma Recipe
If you liked this Horsegram Dal Recipe and happen to make them in your kitchen, do tag me on Instagram and share pictures with me using #TheTastesofIndia.
Please take a moment to rate the recipe and leave a comment below to let us know what you thought. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our recipes and providing you with the best culinary experiences.
So, if you have any tips, suggestions, or variations you would like to share, please don’t hesitate to do so. And don’t forget to share the recipes on your favorite social network sites.
Happy Cooking!!!
