Varanfal / Chakolya – Dal Dhokli Recipe

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Varanfal also called as chakolya and dal dhokli is a popular Indian recipe made with lentils and whole wheat flour. This is a high-protein vegetarian one-pot meal.

This recipe is very popular in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

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    About Dal Dhokli (Varanfal)

    Varanfal / dal dhokli is a perfect combination of spiced wheat flour dumplings that are simmered in sweet, spicy & tangy dal. This is basically Indian lentil pasta with a perfect combination of protein and complex carbs.

    Traditionally varanfal / dal dhokli is made using leftover dal, the wheat flour pieces are added to the dal and simmered till they are soft and served with a dollop of ghee on top.

    This hearty one-pot meal is a staple comfort food and an ideal dish for dinner.

    Dal is the main source of protein for many vegetarians in India, mixing dal with complex cabs like wheat flour or with vegetables especially green leafy vegetables enhances the nutritional value of the dish.

    The process of making varanfal / dal dhokli might overwhelm you but be rest assured it’s not at all complicated as it may look.

    Growing up this dal dhokli / varan fal was our go-to Sunday lunch along with some steamed rice.

    As this dish is popular both in Maharashtra and Gujarat there is little difference in making the dal depending on the region.

    Gujarati dal is very popular and tastes spicy, tangy and sweet with the addition of peanuts. Whereas Maharashtrian dal is made using a special spice powder called goda masala along with kokam and coconut.

    Either way, the varanfal / dal dhokli tastes absolutely delicious and is an incredibly nutritious one-pot meal.

    Naturally a vegan recipe by itself, it is served with ghee which aids in digestion and gives an awesome flavour to this dish.

    For the vegan option, just opt not to serve with ghee or use ghee for tempering. At home, we try to temper the dal with oil instead of ghee.

    You can also check out dal recipes that I have shared – Dal Fry, Simple Dal Tadka (phodnicha varan), Methi Dal (Fenugreek Lentil Curry), Masoor Dal Curry (Whole Brown Lentil Curry)

    Ingredients

    Dal – I have used 1 1/2 cups of turdal / arhar dal / pigeon peas that I washed in water and pressure cooked for 5 whistles.

    Wheat Flour – I have used 2 cups of whole wheat flour which I seasoned with salt, red chilli powder & carrom seeds (ajwain).

    Spices & Herbs – We will require, roughly crushed ginger, dry red chilli, curry leaves, turmeric powder, goda masala for making this varanfal / dal dhokli.

    Seasoning – I have seasoned the dal with salt, jaggery and kokum.

    Oil – I have used 2 tablespoons of oil to make the dal. 1 teaspoon to knead the dough.

    Water – Water is needed to adjust the consistency of the dal and to knead the dough.

    PIN FOR LATER

    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can we store this dal dhokli / varanfal?

    No, this curry has to be consumed immediately only. If stored, all the dhokli’s will stick together and become soggy.

    Can we use other lentils instead of turdal to make dal dhokli?

    Yes, you can use masoor dal / red lentils or yellow moong dal. But turdal / arhar dal / pigeon peas goes well with this recipe. You can also combine dals and use.

    What can I use instead of jaggery & kokam?

    You can use 1 teaspoon of sugar instead of jaggery and 2 tablespoons of tamarind pulp instead of kokam.

    What can I serve this dal dhokli with?

    Dal dhokli / varanfal is a one-pot dish. You can have it as it is or you can serve it with steamed rice. While serving dal dhokli / varanfal drizzle a teaspoon of ghee over it. It enhances the taste of this curry.

    Serving Suggestions

    Dal dhokli / Varanfal is a one-pot meal. It can be served as it is or can be had with rice.

    It tastes best when drizzled with a teaspoon ghee on top which enhances the flavour of this dish.

    Many like to serve it along with mango pickle by the side.

    Storage Options

    The wheat dumplings / dhokli get soggy when stored for a long time, hence it’s not recommended to store dal dhokli. It’s best served immediately.

    But you can store the extra dal in the refrigerator and reheat before serving and have it with rice.

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    Food FAQs

    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

    Step-by-Step Dal Dhokli / Varanfal Recipe With Pictures

    How To Make Dal Dhokli / Varanfal

    • Wash toor dal / arhar dal / pigeon pea till the water runs relatively clear.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add 1 1/2 cups of water and pressure cook the toor dal / pigeon peas for 4-5 whistle till the dal is soft.

    Stainless Steel Coffee Purple Mug

    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

    While the dal cooks, let’s make dhokli dough.

    • In a mixing bowl, take 2 cups wheat flour and add a teaspoon of carrom seeds (ajwain), red chilli powder and salt. Add water and knead a stiff dough. Cover the dough & let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Once the dal is cooked, whisk the dal to a smooth consistency.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Heat oil in a thick bottom saucepan, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add curry leaves, dry red chilli, finely chopped coriander leaves and a tablespoon of crushed ginger paste.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

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    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Saute this mixture till the raw smell of ginger fades away.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

    You may also checkout: Methi Dal Recipe, Dal & Curry Recipes, Maharashtrian Recipes, No Onion No Garlic Recipes

    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add the cooked toor dal.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Mix dal with the tempering.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, salt and goda masala (add 2 tablespoons coriander powder & 1 teaspoon cumin powder if you do not get goda masala).
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add jaggery and kokam (you can substitute them with sugar and tamarind pulp).
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Add 2-3 cups of water and now let the dal come to a boil.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Meanwhile, let’s make dhokli (wheat flour dumplings)

    Ceramic Bowl Set Small Bowls 

    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Take a golf ball size portion of the dough and using dry wheat flour roll out roti.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • This dhokli roti should not be very thick or very thin either. If it’s too thick it will not cook fast and if too thin it will break and disintegrate.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Now using a cutter, cut the roti into square or diamond shapes.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Our dhokli is ready.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • The thickness should be as shown in the picture below.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Once the dal starts to boil, start adding dhokli to the dal.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Make sure that the flame is medium-high and keep on stirring occasionally to avoid dhokli from sticking to each other.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Once all the dhokli’s are added cook for 3 minutes on high flame. Adjust the water (add hot water if required).
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • After 3 minutes, turn off the gas and cover dal dhokli for about 3-4 minutes.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    • Our delicious dal dhokli / varanfal is ready.
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/
    Varanfal / Chakolya - Dal Dhokli Recipe https://thespicycafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/traditional-gujarati-dal-dhokli-recipe-authentic-maharashtrian-varanfal-recipe-vegan-vegetarian.jpg https://thespicycafe.com/daldhokli-varanfal-recipe/

    Note:

    Raw peanuts are also added to varanfal / dal dhokli but at home, we don’t. If you wish to, then cook the peanuts along with the dal in the pressure cooker.

    I have used gul (jaggery) and kokum here for balancing the flavours of this dal. You can substitute them with a teaspoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of tamarind pulp.

    In making dhokli, I have used just basic spices but if you want, you may add coriander powder and cumin powder to the wheat dough. 

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    Recipe Card

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    Varanfal – Dal Dhokli Recipe (Indian Lentil Pasta)

    Anjali P
    Varanfal also called as chakolya and dal dhokli is a popular Indian recipe made with lentils and whole wheat flour. This is a high-protein vegetarian one-pot meal.
    5 from 1 vote
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 40 minutes
    Course Main Course, Soup
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    For Making Dhokli

    • 2 cups Whole Wheat Flour
    • 1 teaspoon Red Chilli Powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon Carrom Seeds (Ajwain)
    • 1 teaspoon Oil
    • Salt to taste
    • Water to knead the dough

    For Dal / Varan

    • 1 1/2 cup Turdal / Arhar Dal / Pigeon Peas
    • 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds (Rai)
    • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
    • 1/2 teaspoon Hing (Asafoetida)
    • 5-6 Curry Leaves
    • 1 tablespoon Ginger (Roughly Crushed)
    • 1 Red Dry Chilli
    • 1 teaspoon Red Chilli Powder `
    • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
    • 2 tablespoons Goda Masala (Substitiue: 2 tbsp coriander powder & 1 tsp cumin powder)
    • 2 teaspoon Jaggery (Gul) (Substiture: 1 teaspoon sugar)
    • 4-5 Kokam Petels (Substitue: 2 tsp Tamarind Pulp)
    • Salt to taste
    • Coriander Leaves to garnish

    Instructions
     

    To make dhokli / wheat flour dumplings

    • In a mixing bowl, take 2 cups wheat flour and add a teaspoon of carrom seeds (ajwain), red chilli powder and salt.
    • Add water and knead a stiff dough. Cover the dough & let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
    • Take a golf ball size portion of the dough and using dry wheat flour roll out roti.
    • This dhokli roti should not be very thick or very thin either. If it's too thick it will not cook fast and if too thin it will break and disintegrate.
    • Now using a cutter, cut the roti into square or diamond shapes.
    • Our dhokli is ready.

    For Dal / Varan

    • Wash toor dal / arhar dal / pigeon pea till the water runs relatively clear.
    • Add 1 1/2 cups of water and pressure cook the toor dal / pigeon peas for 4-5 whistle till the dal is soft.
    • Once the dal is cooked, whisk the dal to a smooth consistency.
    • Heat oil in a thick bottom saucepan, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
    • Add curry leaves, dry red chilli, finely chopped coriander leaves and a tablespoon of crushed ginger paste.
    • Saute this mixture till the raw smell of ginger fades away.
    • Add the cooked toor dal. Mix dal with the tempering.
    • Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, salt and goda masala (add 2 tablespoons coriander powder & 1 teaspoon cumin powder if you do not get goda masala).
    • Add jaggery and kokam (you can substitute them with sugar and tamarind pulp).
    • Add 2-3 cups of water and now let the dal come to a boil.
    • Once the dal starts to boil, start adding dhokli to the dal.
    • Make sure that the flame is medium-high and keep on stirring occasionally to avoid dhokli from sticking to each other.
    • Once all the dhokli's are added cook for 3 minutes on high flame. Adjust the water (add hot water if required).
    • After 3 minutes, turn off the gas and cover dal dhokli for about 3-4 minutes.
    • Our delicious dal dhokli / varanfal is ready.

    Notes

    Raw peanuts are also added to varanfal / dal dhokli but at home, we don’t. If you wish to, then cook the peanuts along with the dal in the pressure cooker.
    I have used gul (jaggery) and kokum here for balancing the flavours of this dal. You can substitute them with a teaspoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of tamarind pulp.
    In making dhokli, I have used just basic spices but if you want, you may add coriander powder and cumin powder to the wheat dough. 
    Keyword dal dhokli, easy dinner recipes, easy lunch recipes, fenugreek lentil curry, instant pot, lentil pasta, One-pot meal, varanfal, vegan curry

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