Dhal Pita (Lentils with Wheat Dumplings)

Dhal Pita is a comforting dish made with soft wheat dumplings (pita) cooked in a flavorful, spiced lentil curry (dhal). The lentils are simmered with onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, while the pitas cook in the dhal to absorb the rich flavors, creating a hearty, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

For the dhal:

• 1 cup split yellow moong dhal (or chana dhal, or a mix)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 tomato, chopped (optional)

• 1–2 green chilies, slit

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 1–2 dried red chilies (optional)

• 1 sprig curry leaves (optional)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp garam masala (optional)

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander for garnish

• Water as needed (around 3–4 cups)
  
  

For the pita (dumplings):

• 1 cup wholewheat flour

• Pinch of salt

• Water to form a soft dough (around ⅓ cup)
  
  

Method:

1. Prepare the dhal:

   • Rinse dhal and soak for 30 minutes if you have time (optional).

   • In a pot, heat oil or ghee. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and let them pop.

   • Add chopped onion, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until golden.

   • Add turmeric, ground cumin, and garam masala (if using).

   • Add chopped tomato, sauté for a minute.

   • Add dhal, salt, and about 3–4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until dhal is soft but not mushy (around 20–30 minutes depending on type).
     
     

2. Make the pita:

   • Mix flour and salt. Add water little by little and knead into a soft dough.

   • Pinch off small bits and roll into thin discs or rustic strips (no need to be perfect).

   • Alternatively, roll out flat and cut into strips or squares.
     
     

3. Add pita to dhal:

   • Once dhal is almost cooked, gently drop the pita pieces into the simmering dhal.

   • Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook for another 10–15 minutes until pita is cooked through (they’ll puff slightly and become tender).
     
     

4. Finish:

   • Adjust salt, sprinkle fresh coriander, and drizzle with a little extra ghee if you like.
     
     

Tips:

• You can spice it up by adding a little chili powder.

• Some people add a squeeze of lemon at the end for brightness.

• Serve hot — it thickens as it stands!