Curry and forum newbie here so please be gentle with me.   

I adore dhansak and would love to make one.  However, i'm not too sure how to prepare the lentils.   Do you boil them first or just add them dry to a simmering base ?  Do they naturally break down and form a sauce or would you blend them ?

I'm a bit lost so any info for this wonderful curry would be very welcome

Thanks

Andy

Hi Andy
Welcome, lentils are always added  pre cooked, I simply follow the timings on the packet although there may be a more BIR method to precook them somewhere on the forum. I'm sure one the more experienced members will advise.
Matt

Hi Andy,

I make and add some tarka dhal from the recipe here: https://curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=320.msg2727#msg2727  (or you can use any other dhal recipe to prepare the dhal)

Some BIRs just use lentils from a tin.

Otherwise, just simmer some red lentils (or other pulses, if you prefer), with a little spice mix (or curry powder) and maybe a little garlic, until they become soft and mushy (with a porridge-like consistency).  Yes, they naturally break down with cooking.

Hi andy,
I cook chicken Dhansak often and I have found that red lentils work well, but yellow is also ok. I always boil then simmer the lentils for about 25-30 mins they should breakdown, let them cool down for a while then put them in a blender and blend until smooth. put into a container then into the fridge. you can do this a few hours before of the day before if you want.

when you come to use it you will see the lentil mix will be firm and hard but that's good just spoon into the pan when cooking and mix into the sauce.

I love Dhansak and I have good results now after lots of pactice .

Bob