Are You Cooking Dal Wrong? Pankaj Bhadouria Shares the Right Way

As you know, dal is one of the most basic and widely eaten foods in almost every Indian home. It's simple, affordable, and easily available everywhere. But here's the surprising part, most people still make common mistakes while cooking it, which can affect both its taste and nutrition.

Popular chef and influencer Pankaj Bhadouria recently shared that the way we usually cook dal is not completely right. According to her, small changes in the process can make your dal healthier, tastier, and easier to digest.

Most of us simply wash the dal and put it in a pressure cooker. But that's not enough. Here's the right method she suggests:

Simple Tips to Cook Dal the Right Way

Always soak before cooking

Wash the dal properly and soak it for at least 30 minutes. This step helps in better digestion and faster cooking.

Throw away the soaking water

The soaked water contains phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that blocks the absorption of important minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium. So, always discard it.

Boil and remove impurities

Add fresh water and bring the dal to a boil. You'll notice foam forming on top—these are saponins and impurities. Skim them off to make your dal lighter on the stomach.

Add spices at the right time

Now add salt and turmeric, and then pressure cook the dal. This ensures better flavor and proper cooking.

By following these simple steps, your dal becomes:

• More gut-friendly
• Easier to digest
• Richer in nutrients
• Better in taste

Cooking dal the right way doesn't require extra effort, just better habits. By making these small changes in your routine, you can turn a simple everyday dish into a healthier and more nutritious meal that supports your digestion and overall well-being.

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A post shared by MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria (@masterchefpankajbhadouria)