ACK 5.5: Jagannātha Purī channe ki dal

Jagannatha Puri channe ki dal

Sweet dal

Anyone who has ever had the good fortune to see the form of Krsna traditionally worshiped in the Indian city of Jagannatha Puri, will never forget it. This form of Krsna, called Jagannatha, "the Lord of the universe," is very merciful and attractive. His eyes are large and brilliant, and His broad smile extends from ear to ear. Jagannatha Puri channe ki dal is a favorite dish of Lord Jagannatha, and in many of our temples the devotees regularly offer it to Him. After tasting this soup for the first time, a guest once remarked that he now understood why Lord Jagannatha is always smiling.

Preparation and cooking time: 1 hr

1 cup (200 g) channa dal
8 cups (1.9 liters) water
3 teaspoon salt
2 bay leaves
5 medium-sized tomatoes
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon powdered asafoetida
3 tablespoon grated fresh or 4 tablespoon dry coconut
2 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoon molasses

Soak the dal overnight and leave in a strainer to drain. Bring the water with the salt to a boil in a heavy saucepan or pot, then add the dal and bay leaves. Cook partially covered over high heat for 30-40 minutes. (Remove any froth that collects on the surface). Then lift the cover, stir the dal several times, and lower to a simmer.

Wash the tomatoes, cut each one into 8 wedges, and add to the dal with the butter. Replace the cover and let the dal simmer while you prepare the seasonings.

Heat the ghee or oil in a small saucepan and fry the cumin seeds. Let them fry for a few seconds, then add the grated ginger, asafoetida, and grated coconut. Fry this mixture for 1 or 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Now pour the ghee and spices into the cooked dal along with the sugar and the molasses. Stir well and simmer for 5 more minutes before serving.