Dal Makhani in Vancouver
Black lentils simmered slow in a spiced tomato and butter sauce, on the menu every day at Main Street, Commercial Drive and Davie Street.
What Dal Makhani Is
Makhani takes its name from makhan, the Hindi word for butter, yet the true secret to this beloved classic is patience. It is a dish defined by unhurried tradition, where time transforms simple ingredients into an exceptionally rich, unified harmony.
Naturally gluten-free as it comes, it is designed to be shared by everyone at the table. Our kitchen can effortlessly prepare it fully vegan or dairy-free upon request, making it a welcoming centerpiece for plant-based diners. Come and taste this heritage recipe at any of our three Sula Indian Restaurant locations: Main Street, Commercial Drive, and Davie Street.
How We Cook It
Long before our doors open, our lentils are set to simmer gently on low heat. We allow them to tenderize and collapse naturally without ever being mashed. This slow hold is the essence of our technique. While a rushed Dal Makhani feels like lentils simply sitting in a base, our careful method ensures the ingredients meld completely until they cease to be separate elements.
We build the sauce from tomatoes cooked down slowly with whole spices, stirring in butter and cream only at the very end to achieve a distinguished, glossy finish that is rich but never heavy. It is an authentic preparation we have proudly served across Vancouver since 2010.
Dal Makhani at All Three Sula Locations
Sula Main Street
4172 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P7
Dal Makhani $18.50
Sula Commercial Drive
1128 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X2
Dal Makhani $18.95
Sula Davie Street
1708 Davie Street, Vancouver, BC V6G 2K7
Daal Makhani $18.95
Dal Makhani to Your Door
It travels well, which is why it is one of the dishes we send out most. Order it for pickup or delivery across Vancouver, and pair it with naan or rice from the same menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get dal makhani in Vancouver?
Sula serves dal makhani every day at all three locations: Main Street, Commercial Drive and Davie Street in downtown Vancouver. You can dine in, order it for pickup, or have it delivered.
What is dal makhani made of?
Whole black lentils, known as urad, simmered slowly and finished with a spiced tomato sauce, butter and cream. Makhani means buttery, which describes the finish rather than a style of restaurant.
Which dal is used in dal makhani?
Whole black urad lentils, not the split yellow dals used in lighter everyday dals. Whole urad is what gives the dish its thick, creamy body after long cooking.
Is dal makhani vegan or gluten free?
It is gluten free as it comes. It is not vegan by default because it is finished with butter and cream, but our kitchen can prepare it dairy free and fully vegan on request. Please mention it when you order.
How much is dal makhani at Sula?
It is $18.50 at Main Street and $18.95 at Commercial Drive and Davie Street. The Davie Street menu lists it as daal makhani, which is the same dish.
Is dal makhani spicy?
It is one of the milder dishes on the menu. The spicing is warm and aromatic rather than hot, which makes it a common choice for tables sharing with children or with guests who prefer less heat.