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Aamti – Traditional Maharashtrian Dal

Aamti is a traditional Maharashtrian lentil curry made with toor dal (pigeon peas), tamarind, jaggery, and a special spice blend called Goda Masala. This sweet, sour, and mildly spiced dal is comforting and pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian, Maharashtrian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients (Serves 3–4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins)
  • 1 cup toor dal pigeon peas
  • 1 small lemon-sized ball tamarind soaked in water
  • 1 tbsp jaggery
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 6 –8 curry leaves
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp Goda Masala
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook dal: Pressure cook toor dal until soft. Mash well.
  2. Prepare base: Heat oil/ghee, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, chilies, and tomato. Sauté.
  3. Add tamarind pulp, jaggery, turmeric, Goda Masala, and salt. Cook for 5 mins.
  4. Add cooked dal, simmer for 7–8 mins, and adjust consistency.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Serve hot with steamed rice and a dollop of ghee.
  • Tastes great with bhakri or chapati as well.
 
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I skip jaggery?
A: Jaggery balances flavors, but you can reduce or skip it if you prefer less sweetness.
Q: What if I don’t have Goda Masala?
A: Substitute with garam masala, though flavor will differ.
Q: Can I use other dals?
A: Toor dal is traditional, but moong dal or masoor dal can be used as variations.