Chef Priya
Priya's Kitchen Notes

Easy recipes, bold spices, and stories from my family kitchen.

Starter Guide To Indian Flavor

Stuffed Lentil Bread

Dal Paratha

(47 reviews)
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This recipe takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings, when my family would gather around to enjoy these parathas fresh off the pan, often with a sweet mango pickle or cool yogurt on the side.

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Stuffed Lentil Bread
Prep time:30 mins
Cook time:20 mins
Total time:50 mins

Protein

10g

Carbs

50g

Fat

8g

Calories

320 kcal

Servings:
4
VegetarianDairy Free

Ingredients

whole wheat flour2 cups
wateras needed
(for kneading)
yellow lentils1 cup
(cooked until soft)
onion1 small
(finely chopped)
green chili1
(finely chopped, optional)
fresh cilantro2 tbsp
(chopped)
saltto taste
oil2 tbsp
(for cooking)

Spices

cumin seeds1 tsp
ground coriander1 tsp
ground turmeric0.50 tsp
red chili powder0.50 tsp
(adjust to taste)

Directions

Prepare the Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt.
  2. Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, pliable dough.
  3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Make the Lentil Filling

  1. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
  4. Stir in the green chili, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder.
  5. Add cooked lentils and mix well, mashing slightly with the back of a spoon.
  6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt and fresh cilantro.
  7. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
Chef's tip: Ensure the lentil mixture is not too wet; it should be easy to handle and stuff into the dough.

Fill and Cook the Parathas

  1. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  2. Flatten a dough ball into a small disc, place a spoonful of the lentil filling in the center.
  3. Gather the edges of the disc to encase the filling, pinching to seal.
  4. Gently flatten the filled ball and roll out into a 6-inch circle.
  5. Heat a tava or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each paratha for 2-3 minutes on each side, applying oil as needed, until golden brown.
Chef's tip: Use gentle pressure while rolling to avoid the filling bursting out.

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Behind the Recipe

Chef Priya in her kitchen

Hi! I'm Priya. I grew up in Delhi in a tiny kitchen filled with noise, spices, and stories. I learned to cook the way most of us do—by watching, tasting, and eventually doing. My mother never measured anything, but somehow every dish was perfect.

After I moved to the U.S., I found myself cooking the same dishes to feel close to home. Friends would ask for recipes, and I realized how unfamiliar Indian cooking still felt to many people here. That's what led me to start sharing—not just the food, but the how and why behind each step.

These recipes are rooted in tradition but shaped by life abroad. I try to keep things practical without losing what makes them special. If you've ever wanted to bring more Indian flavor into your kitchen, I hope this is a good place to start.