Spice level warning — Dal Makhani is not what I expected

I underestimated Dal Makhani. The rich and complex description didn't prepare me for the reality. whole spices brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

spices are used medicinally as well as for flavour in Ayurvedic tradition. The a dhaba roadside restaurant setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. nimbu pani lemon water cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.