Chakulya (varanfal) recipe - Simple recipe

Maharashtrian Chakulya It consists of dough pieces (similar to pasta) cooked in a lentil-based curry also known as Varan fal (Dal Dohkali) is a traditional maharashtrian recipe made up of wheat flour dough cooked with boiled dal. It is often served with ghee and chopped fresh coriander leaves with sprinkling lemon juice.

Simple and delicious recipe for Varan fala(chakulya):

Ingredients:

For the Varan(Dal):

• 1 cup mix dal (Toor dal, moong dal, masoor dal), washed and soaked for 30 minutes

• 5 cups water

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp(optional)

• 1 tablespoon jaggery or sugar(optional) 

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds(optional)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds(optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

• 8-10 curry leaves

• 2 tomatoes, chopped(optional)

• 1-2 green chilies, slit

• 1 inch ginger, grated

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

For the Chakulya (Noodles):

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder(optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)(optional)

• Salt to taste

• Water (as needed to make dough)

• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

Making the Dal:

1. Cook the Dal:

• In a pressure cooker, add the soaked mix dal, 5 cups of water, and turmeric powder.

• Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles until the dal is soft and mushy.

• Once done, mash the dal and set aside.

2. Tempering:

• In a large pot, heat oil or ghee.

• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

• Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves, and sauté for a few seconds.

• Add grated ginger, green chilies, and chopped tomatoes(if using).

• Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the mashed dal to the pot.

• Add red chili powder, tamarind pulp, jaggery, and salt.

• Bring it to a boil and let it simmer.

Making the Chakulya:

4. Prepare the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, turmeric powder(optional), carom seeds(if using), salt, and oil.

• Mix well and add water gradually to make a firm but pliable dough.

• Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.

5. Shape the Chakulya:

• Divide the dough into small portions.

• Roll out each portion into thin circles (like rotis).

• Cut the rolled dough into small diamond or square-shaped pieces(chakulya ).

Cooking the Chakulya in Dal:

6. Add Chakulya to Dal:

• Gently drop the chakulya into the simmering dal. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to each other.

• Cook on medium heat for about 15-20  minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are fully cooked and soft. 

Watch how to make Chakulya:

7. Final Touch:

• Adjust the salt and spices to taste. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed.

• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. 

Serving:
Serve the Maharashtrian Chakulya hot, with a drizzle of ghee on top if desired. Enjoy this comforting and traditional dish!