Dahi Baray

This recipe is popular all over Pakistan. Different communities have their own variations to this recipe. For example, some add sugar to the curds, whilst others temper it with mustard and curry leaves. The Marwaris use moong dal instead of urad dal to make the vadas. Dahi Baray can be eaten as a snack or as part of the meal. The phulki can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. You have only to soak them in hot water and drain just before serving. 

Ingredients

 250 g. dhuli mash dal (white), washed and soaked overnight.

 Pinch of baking soda

 1/2 tsp. salt

 600 ml natural yogurt

 1\2 tsp. red chili powder

 1\2 tsp. garam masala

 1/2 tsp. salt

 1 clove garlic crushed

   

Method

1. Wash soaked dal with few changes of water. Place dal, baking powder and salt in a food processor or blender and grind to a smooth thick paste. Add a little water at a time if it is difficult to grind, continue grinding, this will incorporate air and make the paste lighter in texture. Leave it to rest for 15 -20 minutes.

2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or karahi. Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of paste into the hot oil. It should rise to the top at once.

3. Drop carefully a tablespoon full of paste into the hot fat. Fry to a golden colour, turning once or twice. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on absorbent kitchen paper. Fry 4-5 baray at a time.

4. Ten minutes before serving soak the dumplings in warm water. Press the dumplings between the palms carefully to squeeze out the water.

5. Whisk yogurt with 1\4 cup water, chili powder, salt, garam masala and garlic to make a smooth paste.

6. Arrange the dumplings in a serving dish. Pour the seasoned yogurt over it.

7. Garnish with Chat Masala and Sweet Imli Chutney.