What makes dhokar dalna special

Dhokar dalna is a Bengali classic. Soaked chana dal is ground and spiced, cooked into a firm cake, cut into diamonds and fried until golden. The pieces then simmer in a gentle ginger and cumin gravy.

Why it works

The crisp outside soaks up the gravy while the centre stays soft. It is rich without any meat, which is why it often appears at vegetarian feasts in Bengal.