Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 2–4
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: See full list in the blog post

Traditional Rajasthani thali with baati, dal, and churma served on a brass plate, with ghee being poured over the baatis by a woman wearing bangles in a rustic Indian kitchen.

"Hearty, rustic, and soulful – Dal Bati Churma is Rajasthan on a plate."
"A royal feast born in the desert, now a celebration at every Indian table."

🧡 Introduction:

Dal Bati Churma is more than just a dish—it’s a culinary symbol of Rajasthan that captures the essence of the desert state in every bite. The golden-baked baatis soaked in ghee, the spiced lentil dal, and the sweet, crumbled churma come together in a trio of flavors and textures that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or seeking comfort food on a cold evening, this dish promises richness, satisfaction, and cultural depth.

What makes Dal Bati Churma so unique is its balance of flavors. The dal is mildly spiced, earthy, and protein-packed. The bati offers a delightful crunch and is made with whole wheat flour and ghee, then either baked or fried. Finally, churma—the sweet, nutty crumble—adds a comforting and celebratory finish. This makes it not just a meal but an experience.

In Rajasthan, Dal Bati Churma is more than a dish—it’s a festive ritual, often served during weddings, religious occasions, and large community feasts. The sustainability of ingredients and the method of preparation speak volumes about the region's lifestyle. It’s a dish that celebrates frugality and richness at once, making the most of available grains and legumes while elevating them with ghee, jaggery, and spices.

For those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine or regional varieties, this recipe introduces a distinct culinary tradition that is both nourishing and indulgent. It’s a perfect weekend project for home cooks who enjoy exploring global comfort food, and the best part? It can be prepped in advance and assembled for a stress-free serving. This step-by-step guide walks you through how to make the best Dal Bati Churma at home—from scratch, with love.

🏺 History and Significance of Dal Bati Churma:

A Royal Rajasthani Legacy:

Dal Bati Churma traces its roots to the royal kitchens of Rajasthan, where it was prepared for kings, warriors, and travelers alike. Historically, bati—the baked wheat ball—was invented as a battlefield food, requiring no special equipment, just hot sand or stones for baking. Over time, the dish evolved, with dal being added for protein and churma for a sweet finish. The trio now represents Rajasthan’s culinary richness, marrying simplicity with celebration. Its origins make it a symbol of resilience, nourishment, and indulgence in harsh desert conditions.

The Warrior’s Meal:

Centuries ago, Rajput warriors would carry pre-prepared baatis during long journeys. These balls could be stored for days and were typically eaten with just a dash of ghee. Dal, made from lentils like toor dal, moong dal, and chana dal, was cooked in large pots to serve groups. The sweet churma was later added to replenish energy. The dish, though humble in ingredients, became fuel for strength, reflecting how Dal Bati Churma is not just delicious but also deeply nourishing and practical for survival.

Symbol of Rajasthani Hospitality:

In Rajasthan, food is sacred, and Dal Bati Churma stands at the heart of Marwari hospitality. It’s often the first dish served to guests at weddings, community events, and religious feasts. Preparing this dish from scratch is considered a mark of devotion and love. The act of pouring melted ghee over the hot baatis and serving dal with generous spoonfuls is a ceremonial experience. It's not just about eating; it’s about sharing culture and warmth.

A Dish for All Castes and Classes:

One unique aspect of Dal Bati Churma is how it transcends social and economic boundaries. From the palaces of Jaipur to the mud huts of Barmer, it is prepared and enjoyed across the board. The ingredients—wheat, lentils, ghee, and jaggery—are easily accessible, and the cooking method requires minimal equipment. This makes it a unifier dish, symbolizing how flavor and tradition can bring everyone to the same table. Rural and urban families alike celebrate it during major life events.

Religious and Festive Importance:

In Hindu tradition, Dal Bati Churma holds religious importance. It is often prepared as an offering during pujas and on days like Makar Sankranti, Holi, and Diwali. The dish’s richness in ghee and jaggery makes it ideal for auspicious occasions. Churma, in particular, is considered shubh (blessed) and is offered to deities. Devotees believe that preparing and sharing this dish invites prosperity, health, and harmony into their homes, adding spiritual depth to its enjoyment.

The Evolution of Preparation:

Traditionally, bati was baked in a mud oven or under hot coals, and dal was simmered in clay pots. Today, modern kitchens use OTGs, pressure cookers, and food processors to ease the process, but the essence remains unchanged. While urban versions may offer fusion twists—such as cheese-stuffed baatis or spinach dal—the authentic recipe remains true to its roots in simplicity and wholesomeness. The evolution reflects how tradition adapts without losing its soul.

A Symbol of Thali Culture:

Rajasthan’s thali system emphasizes variety, balance, and presentation, and Dal Bati Churma is its proud centerpiece. Served with accompaniments like lassi, garlic chutney, and papad, it forms a complete, balanced meal that satisfies all tastes—sweet, salty, spicy, and rich. This dish showcases how a thali can offer nutrition, flavor, and visual delight. It has inspired chefs worldwide to present Dal Bati Churma in plated fine-dining formats, proving its global appeal.

Preserving Culture Through Food:

In the face of globalization and fast food, dishes like Dal Bati Churma preserve regional identity and culinary heritage. Grandmothers pass down their version of the churma recipe, the secret masala for dal, and the technique for shaping the perfect bati. Cooking this dish is a way for Rajasthani families to connect generations and share stories around food. In every bite, one can taste nostalgia, pride, and love for tradition.

⏱️ Cooking Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Plan extra time if making in large quantities for gatherings or festivals.

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🧂 Ingredients of the Recipe (for 4 servings)

Here’s what you’ll need to make authentic Dal Bati Churma at home. Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to elevate the flavors:

🔸 For the Dal:

½ cup Toor Dal (Pigeon Pea Lentils)
¼ cup Chana Dal (Bengal Gram)
¼ cup Moong Dal (Yellow Lentils)
1 Onion, finely chopped
2 Tomatoes, chopped
1 Green Chili, slit
1 tsp Grated Ginger
1 tsp Cumin Seeds
1 tsp Mustard Seeds
¼ tsp Asafoetida (Hing)
1 tsp Turmeric Powder
1 tsp Red Chili Powder
Salt to taste
2 tbsp Ghee
Fresh Coriander Leaves for garnish

🔸 For the Bati:

2 cups Whole Wheat Flour
¼ cup Sooji (Semolina)
4 tbsp Ghee
1 tsp Carom Seeds (Ajwain)
Salt to taste
Water for kneading
Extra Ghee for soaking

🔸 For the Churma:

1 cup Coarsely Crushed Wheat Bati or Wheat Flour
3 tbsp Ghee
½ cup Jaggery or Sugar
¼ tsp Cardamom Powder
2 tbsp Grated Dry Coconut (optional)
Chopped Almonds and Cashews for garnish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Process:

Here's how to make Dal Bati Churma in three parts – dal, bati, and churma:

🌿 Step 1: Prepare the Dal

Rinse and soak all dal varieties together for 30 minutes.
Pressure cook with turmeric, salt, and water (2½ cups) for 3 whistles or until soft.
In a pan, heat ghee, add mustard seeds, cumin, asafoetida, green chili, and ginger.
Add chopped onions, sauté until golden, then add tomatoes, chili powder, and cook until soft.
Mix the cooked dal into this masala. Add water to adjust consistency and simmer for 10 minutes.
Garnish with fresh coriander and keep it warm.

Tip: For smoky flavor, do a charcoal dhungar (smoke infusion) after cooking.

🥖 Step 2: Make the Bati

In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour, semolina, ghee, salt, and ajwain. Knead into a tight dough.
Divide and roll into lemon-sized balls. Flatten slightly and make a thumbprint in the center.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes or until golden, flipping once halfway.
Once baked, dip hot baatis into melted ghee and keep covered.

Variation: Traditionally, baatis are cooked over coal or cow dung cakes in rural Rajasthan.

🍯 Step 3: Make the Churma

Crush 3-4 baatis while they’re still warm, or roast wheat flour in ghee until light brown.
Add jaggery or sugar, cardamom, and dry fruits.
Mix well and serve warm or cooled.

Tip: Use a mortar and pestle to get a rustic texture in churma.

Review and Taste:

✨ A Feast of Textures and Flavors:

The first bite of Dal Bati Churma is truly a celebration of texture and taste. The crispy, golden baatis break into tender crumbs when soaked in hot, buttery dal, while the smooth lentils wrap your palate in warmth. Every mouthful brings a comforting, earthy spice, accentuated by fragrant ghee and subtle ginger. Add a spoonful of sweet churma, and you’re rewarded with a satisfying contrast—a rich, nutty finish that elevates the entire meal.

🌟 Satisfying and Soulful:

Eating Dal Bati Churma is not just a meal—it’s an experience of wholesomeness and joy. The slightly smoky aroma of baked wheat, the creamy richness of toor and chana dals, and the cardamom-scented churma create a medley of taste that is both rustic and royal. Every element balances the other, making it ideal for those who love comfort food with depth and tradition. It’s the kind of dish you’ll remember long after the plate is clean.

💪 Health Benefits and Nutrition:

🌿 Rich in Protein and Fiber:

Thanks to a mix of toor, moong, and chana dal, this dish is naturally high in plant-based protein and dietary fiber. The dal component helps build muscles and keeps you full for longer. Combined with whole wheat bati, it supports digestive health and provides sustained energy, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent choice for vegetarians looking to meet their daily protein needs.

🧈 Ghee – A Healthy Fat:

While ghee is often thought of as indulgent, it’s actually a source of healthy fats when used mindfully. It enhances digestion, supports joint health, and adds fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E. In traditional Indian cooking, ghee is prized not just for flavor but for its Ayurvedic benefits. Adding ghee to Dal Bati Churma ensures your body absorbs all the nutrients more efficiently.

🍯 Natural Sweeteners and Energy Boost:

The churma is typically sweetened with jaggery, a natural alternative to refined sugar. Jaggery is known to aid in detoxification, immunity-boosting, and preventing anemia due to its iron content. Combined with ghee and nuts, it becomes a healthy dessert that provides quick energy. Unlike processed sweets, this version is wholesome and rooted in traditional nutrition wisdom.

🌾 Balanced Meal for All Ages:

Dal Bati Churma is a complete, balanced meal—rich in carbs, protein, good fats, and essential minerals. It nourishes both kids and elders, making it ideal for family meals. The components can be customized—less ghee for calorie control or gluten-free flour for intolerances—while still preserving its authentic essence. It’s home-cooked comfort with real nutritional value.

🥗 The Pairing of the Recipe:

1️⃣ Dal Bati Churma with Aloo Sabzi:

Pair your Dal Bati Churma with a mildly spiced Rajasthani Aloo Sabzi. The tangy tomatoes and earthy potatoes beautifully contrast with the rich dal and sweet churma. It’s a comforting combo, especially for festive thalis or a special Sunday lunch. Don’t forget a dollop of fresh curd on the side.

2️⃣ Buttermilk (Chaas) for a Cooling Sip:

A tall glass of chilled masala chaas balances the richness of ghee and lentils. The yogurt-based drink helps with digestion and offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal. Add roasted cumin powder and mint for an extra flavor kick. It’s a must-have with any Rajasthani thali.

3️⃣ Kachumber Salads for Crunch:

To add some freshness and crunch, serve kachumber salad on the side. Made with chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and coriander, it provides a light, acidic element that complements the richness of dal and bati. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness to each bite and balances the spices.

4️⃣ Papad and Pickle for Texture and Tang:

Enhance your Dal Bati Churma meal with crispy roasted papad and a spoonful of Rajasthani mango or lemon pickle. These condiments offer a delightful play of crunch and tang, making every bite more exciting. They're simple additions but make the whole meal feel even more festive.

5️⃣ Sweet Lassis for Dessert-Lovers:

For those with a sweet tooth, end the meal with a rose-flavored lassi or kesar (saffron) lassi. It’s cooling, aromatic, and rounds off the spicy-sweet profile of Dal Bati Churma with a creamy finish. Lassi also aids digestion and leaves you feeling completely satisfied.

🎉 Recipes for Special Occasions:

🌟 Diwali & Festival Feasts:

Dal Bati Churma is a signature dish during Diwali celebrations in Rajasthan. Its ghee-rich profile and wholesome flavors make it perfect for festive indulgence. Served alongside sweets like Ghewar or Besan Ladoo, it becomes part of a grand thali that embodies the joy and abundance of the festival.

💑 Weddings & Ceremonial Meals:

At traditional Rajasthani weddings, this iconic dish is served with immense pride. It represents cultural heritage and is often the centerpiece of vegetarian feasts. Families prepare large batches of dal and bati in clay ovens, symbolizing hospitality, warmth, and unity—key values during sacred and joyful events.

🎂 Birthdays & Special Gatherings:

Planning a birthday lunch or inviting guests over for a cultural meal? Dal Bati Churma fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to prepare in bulk, has a celebratory richness, and suits all age groups. Pair it with cool beverages and salads for a balanced, memorable experience.

🛕 Religious Offerings and Fasting Breaks:

In some temples and religious homes, Dal Bati Churma is offered to deities or prepared as prasad. The dish’s simple ingredients and wholesome nature make it suitable for both sacred and nourishing purposes, especially during breaks from fasting periods like Navratri or Purnima.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)

Q.1 Can I make Dal Bati Churma without ghee?

Yes, but ghee gives authenticity. Substitute with unsalted butter or oil for a lighter version.

Q.2 What lentils are used in Rajasthani Dal?

A mix of toor dal, chana dal, and moong dal gives the perfect flavor and protein-rich base.

Q.3 Is bati deep-fried or baked?

Traditionally baked over charcoal, but you can bake in an oven or air fryer for modern convenience.

Q.4 Can churma be made without jaggery?

Yes, you can use brown sugar or regular sugar, but jaggery adds deeper flavor and traditional sweetness.

Q.5 How long can I store Dal Bati Churma?

Dal can be stored for 2–3 days refrigerated. Bati and churma stay fresh in airtight containers for 4–5 days.

Q.6 Can I freeze the dal?

Yes, cooked dal freezes well for up to one month. Reheat with added water and adjust spices as needed.

Q.7. Is Dal Bati Churma gluten-free?

No, bati and churma use wheat flour. Use gluten-free flour alternatives for a modified version.

Q.8. How do I reheat bati?

Wrap in foil and warm in the oven, or lightly toast on a tawa with some ghee for extra crispness.

Q.9. What makes churma aromatic?

Ghee, cardamom powder, and coarsely ground wheat roasted slowly bring out churma’s nutty and aromatic qualities.

Q.10. Can I serve it to kids?

Yes, kids usually love the mild dal and sweet churma. Adjust spices to suit their taste preferences.

Q.11. Is this dish spicy?

Dal is mildly spiced and can be adjusted. Churma is sweet. The spice level is completely customizable.

Q.12. What flour is best for bati?

Use coarse whole wheat flour or mix regular flour with semolina (rava) for texture and crunch.

Q.13. What chutney goes well with this dish?

Garlic chutney or coriander chutney adds heat and brightness, balancing the richness of dal and churma.

Q.14. How to make bati without an oven?

Cook on a gas tandoor, BBQ grill, or in an appe pan on low flame for rustic results.

Q.15. Why is it a festive dish?

Its richness in ghee, hearty flavors, and traditional prep methods make it a celebratory favorite in Rajasthani culture.

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📝 Summary:

The Legacy of Dal Bati Churma:

From its humble origins in the arid lands of Rajasthan to its place on royal and festive thalis, Dal Bati Churma has stood the test of time. It remains a glorious example of how simple ingredients like lentils, wheat, and ghee can come together to create a culinary masterpiece that’s rich, filling, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Making This Dish?

Whether you’re craving something comforting and traditional or looking for a showstopper for a festive gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s not only hearty and healthy, but also offers a great chance to connect with Indian culinary heritage in your own kitchen.

Let’s Cook Together!

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen and whip up a batch of Dal Bati Churma today!
Don’t forget to share your creations and leave a comment below — I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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💛 Ending with a Cute Note

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Stay spicy and keep smiling! 😊

How to Make Dal Bati Churma – Rajasthani Lentils, Wheat Balls & Sweet Crumble