Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepalese dish that consists of lentil soup (dal) and rice (bhat), often served with a variety of side dishes. One of the key elements that make this dish so flavorful is the Dal Bhat spice blend. This spice blend combines a variety of aromatic spices that are commonly used in Nepalese cuisine, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
In this blog post, we will provide a recipe to make your own Dal Bhat spice blend at home, as well as some ideas for dishes to use it in.
Recipe For Dal Bhat Spice Blend
- 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger powder
Instructions:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the cumin, coriander, fennel, and mustard seeds until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally (about 2-3 minutes).
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the seeds cool for a minute or two.
- Add the toasted seeds, black peppercorns, turmeric powder, and ginger powder to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, and grind them into a fine powder.
- Store the spice blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Dishes To Use Dal Bhat Spice Blend In
- Dal Bhat: The traditional Nepalese dish that the spice blend is named after. Add a teaspoon or two of the spice blend to the lentil soup while it simmers, and sprinkle some on top of the rice before serving.
- Tarkari: A Nepalese vegetable curry that is often served as a side dish with Dal Bhat. Use the spice blend as the base for the curry, along with your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and cauliflower.
- Meat dishes: The spice blend can be used to flavor any meat dish, such as chicken or lamb curry, or mixed with ground meat to make kebabs or meatballs.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in some oil and the spice blend before roasting in the oven for a flavorful side dish.
- Hummus: Add a teaspoon of the spice blend to your homemade hummus recipe for a Nepalese twist.
Comparison Of Dal Bhat Spice Blend Ingredients
| Spice | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Cumin seeds | Earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter |
| Coriander seeds | Citrusy, slightly sweet, and a hint of spice |
| Fennel seeds | Sweet and licorice-like |
| Mustard seeds | Pungent and slightly bitter |
| Black peppercorns | Spicy and mildly pungent |
| Turmeric powder | Earthy, slightly bitter, and adds a vibrant yellow color |
| Ginger powder | Spicy, warm, and slightly sweet |
Final Thoughts
Dal Bhat spice blend is an essential ingredient in Nepalese cuisine. With its unique combination of spices, it can add a complex depth of flavor to a variety of dishes, from lentil soup to roasted vegetables.
By making your own spice blend at home, you can ensure that it is fresh and free of any additives or preservatives.