Mati Mahor Dal Gahori
A hearty and rustic pork curry from Assam, slow-cooked with whole black gram lentils until tender. This flavorful dish, infused with ginger, garlic, and chilies, is a true taste of North-Eastern Indian comfort food.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Lentils and Pork
- b.Wash the whole black gram lentils (mati mah) thoroughly under running water. Soak them in ample water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This is a crucial step for even cooking.
- c.Wash the pork pieces well and pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Pork
- b.Place a pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Add the mustard oil and heat it until it becomes pale and just starts to smoke. This tempers the oil and reduces its pungency.
- c.Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully add the bay leaves and sliced onions. Sauté for 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden brown.
- d.Add the ginger and garlic pastes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- e.Add the pork pieces, turmeric powder, and salt. Increase the heat to medium-high and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is sealed and lightly browned on all sides.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Pressure Cook the Curry
- b.Drain the soaked lentils completely and add them to the pressure cooker along with the slit green chilies.
- c.Stir everything together for about a minute to combine the flavors.
- d.Pour in 4 cups of hot water and give it a final good mix.
- e.Secure the lid of the pressure cooker. Bring to high pressure. After the first whistle, reduce the heat to low and cook for 30-35 minutes.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Do not force open the lid, as this process helps tenderize the meat further.
- c.Once the pressure has fully subsided, open the cooker. The lentils should be soft and creamy, and the pork should be fall-apart tender.
- d.Check the consistency. If the curry is too thin, simmer it without the lid for 5-10 minutes to thicken. If it's too thick, add a splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.
- e.Stir in the garam masala, if using. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- f.Serve hot with steamed rice for an authentic Assamese meal.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, do not skip the mustard oil. Heating it until it smokes is key to mellowing its sharp taste.
- 2Using pork with a good fat-to-meat ratio, like pork shoulder or belly, will result in a richer, more flavorful curry.
- 3Soaking the lentils overnight is non-negotiable. It ensures they cook to a creamy consistency along with the pork.
- 4Always allow the pressure cooker to release pressure naturally. This makes the pork incredibly tender.
- 5The dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together.
- 6For an extra layer of authentic Assamese flavor, add a small piece of fermented bamboo shoot (khorisa) along with the lentils.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
You can add cubed potatoes or chunks of pumpkin along with the lentils for a more wholesome curry.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Replace pork with firm mushrooms, paneer, or chunks of raw jackfruit. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; jackfruit will need similar pressure cooking time, while mushrooms and paneer should be added after pressure cooking and simmered for 10 minutes.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add 1 teaspoon of red chili powder along with the turmeric powder for extra heat. You can also add a few dried red chilies when tempering the oil.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Both pork and whole black gram lentils are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
High in Dietary Fiber
The whole black gram lentils provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Good Source of Iron
This dish is a good source of iron, a vital mineral that helps in the formation of red blood cells and prevents anemia. The iron from pork (heme iron) is particularly easy for the body to absorb.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Mati Mahor Dal Gahori contains approximately 725 calories, primarily from the pork, lentils, and oil. This is an estimate and can vary based on the cut of pork used.