Traditional Dahi Bhalay Recipe

Step 1: Make the Lentil Batter

• In a blender jug, add soaked white lentils (Mash daal).
• Gradually add water while blending to form a thick paste. Blend well until smooth.

Step 2: Whisk the Mixture

• Transfer the blended mixture into a bowl.
• Add roasted cumin seeds and salt to the mixture.
• Whisk the mixture continuously in one direction for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes fluffy and light.

Step 3: Check Batter Consistency

• To check if the batter is ready, drop 1 tsp of the batter into a bowl of water. If it sinks, whisk the batter for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• If the batter floats, it's ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Baray

• Heat cooking oil in a pan on low heat.
• Using a greased spoon, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.
• Fry the baray on low flame until they turn golden brown on all sides.
• Remove them from the oil and set aside to cool.

Step 5: Soak the Baray

• In a bowl, add warm water and salt, then mix well.
• Gently drop the fried baray into the water and cover them with a small lid to ensure they are fully submerged.
• Let the baray soak for 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Remove Excess Water

• After soaking, take the baray out of the water and gently squeeze them to remove any excess water.

2. Prepare Street Style Smooth Dahi (Yogurt)

Step 1: Prepare Cornflour Mixture

• In a saucepan, add 1 cup of water and 1 tbsp of cornflour.
• Mix well and cook on low flame, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a glue-like consistency.
• Remove from the flame and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Whisk the Yogurt

• In a separate bowl, add 1 kg of yogurt, ½ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional).
• Whisk the yogurt until it is smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Combine Cornflour Mixture with Yogurt

• Once the cornflour mixture has cooled, add it to the yogurt mixture.
• Whisk well until the cornflour mixture is fully incorporated into the yogurt, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Assemble the Dahi Bhalay

Step 1: Prepare the Serving Dish

• In a serving bowl, add the soaked baray.
• Gently break them with a spoon to ensure they absorb the yogurt well.

Step 2: Add Toppings

• Papdi: Add crispy papdi pieces over the baray.
• Dahi Bara Masala: Sprinkle dahi bara masala (a mixture of roasted cumin, chili powder, and other spices) over the baray and yogurt.
• Khatti Meethi Chutney: Drizzle khatti meethi chutney (sweet and sour tamarind chutney) over the top for added flavor.

Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve immediately as a refreshing and flavorful appetizer or snack, perfect for special occasions or street food-style indulgence!