12 One-Pot Winter Wonders Your Dadi Would Approve Of

2. Dal Makhani — Slow-Simmered Creamy Lentils

Dal Makhani is the luxurious, slow-cooked lentil dish that many grandmothers loved for its deep, smoky flavor and velvety texture. Made from whole urad dal and a touch of rajma sometimes, it benefits from slow simmering which develops a rich, comforting profile that feels perfect on cold nights. Traditionally it simmers for hours with tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and whole spices. For a one-pot, time-savvy approach, soak the lentils overnight and cook them under pressure to reduce time while still building flavor. Finish with a light swirl of ghee or cream if you like, though you can use a small amount of milk to keep it lighter without losing the indulgence. Serve it with warm rotis, steamed rice, or a small portion of jeera rice for a satisfying winter meal. Dal Makhani showcases how lentils can be comfort food rather than just everyday protein—warming in the belly and full of the kinds of flavors Dadi knew to coax out with patience.