Original source:
http://twistedcheft.com/2013/03/11/slow-cooker-haleem-a-traditional-mixed-lentil-and-meat-soup/
This has so far been the best meal from the slow cooker. Simple, healthy, and delicious! Can be had as is (like chili) or over rice as a daal equivalent.
Saute some veggies on the side or serve a simple salad, if you feel guilty about the lack of greens (like I usually do :D)
Ingredients:2 lbs of meat (I've used chicken breast, and thighs, preferably frozen)
1.5 to 2 cups mixed Daal (I've used masoor (lentils) and moong)
1 cube beef/chicken bullion or 1 cup broth (optional)
Salt to taste
Oil for cooking
Spice Paste (to prepare the previous night):
2 cups Onions, finely diced
2 tbs Garlic paste, or fresh grated
3-4 tsp Ginger paste, or fresh grated
6-7 Cardamom
3 – 1″ pieces Cinnamon stick
3-4 bay leaves
4-6 Allspice, whole
1 tsp Clove
1 tsp Black Pepper, whole
1 tsp Turmeric powder
1/2 tsp Chili powder, (use more or less to taste)
2 tsp Coriander powder
2 tsp Cumin Powder
Green chili, for cooking
Condiments:
Fried onion (this is optional, but the taste and texture it adds is phenomenal)
Coriander leaves, chopped
Lime or Lime Juice
Directions:
Previous night:
In a pot heat oil and add bay leaves, cinnamon and cardamon.
Once they are aromatic (about 30 seconds) add onions and saute until the onions are starting to turn light golden (stir as needed).
Add ginger and garlic. Saute for another minute or so stirring as required.
Add allspice, clove, pepper, turmeric, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder and incorporate with the onions.
Add one or two green chilies and a about 1/4 cup of water and cook the spice mixture until the water is evaporated and oil separates.
Store overnight in an air tight container.
Day of:
Wash and place the daals in the slow cooker.
Add the (frozen) meat. If the meat is not frozen do NOT use the delay function of your slow cooker.
Add the spice mixture made the previous night.
Add the broth, and enough water to cover all the ingredients.
Be generous with your water as lentils and beans tend to absorb large amount of water.
Sprinkle salt per taste.
Turn on your slow-cooker and cook on low for 8 hours and on high for 3 hours.
Once cooked taste for salt and add as required.
If the haleem is too thick, add more liquid and cook without the lid for a bit.
Notes:
Chicken breast disintegrates into shreds easier, so I prefer it over thigh meat.