![Dhal](https://shoplittleguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dhal1-500x500.jpg)
Shanie’s Dhal
Guyanese Dhal, a staple in the heart of Guyanese cuisine, is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary embrace that resonates with warmth and tradition. Crafted from yellow split peas, the preparation of this dish involves a careful infusion of flavors that captures the essence of the country’s rich culinary heritage.
The humble yellow split peas undergo a transformative journey, simmering in a pot with fragrant spices like turmeric and a touch of wiri pepper for that distinctive Guyanese kick. As the peas tenderize, the kitchen is filled with the comforting aroma that signals the impending creation of a soul-soothing meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow split peas
- 2 red wiri pepper
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon geera
- 3 cups water
- Turmeric pinch
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil
Instructions
Cooking the Dhal:
- Combine 1 cup of yellow split peas with 3 cups of water in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, skimming off any foam that surfaces.
- Add a pinch of turmeric and a few drops of oil. Continue boiling until the split peas are tender.
Mashing the Mixture:
- While cooking, ‘gotay’ (mash) the split peas to achieve a smooth consistency.
Tempering with Wiri Pepper:
- In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil and geera. Add chopped wiri pepper and garlic cloves, frying for 1 minute.
Simmer to Perfection:
- Combine the fried mixture with the dhal and continue ‘gotaying’ until you have a watery mixture.
Final Touch:
- Allow the dhal to simmer briefly, letting the tempered spices infuse their essence into the dish.
Notes
Guyanese Dhal finds its perfect companion in Chicken Curry, served alongside rice or warm roti.