Masoor Dal Recipe
Masoor dal is a red lentil dish prepared in Indian style with basic spices and seasoning.
Masoor dal is a red lentil dish prepared in Indian style with basic spices and seasoning.
- 1 cup water
- salt as needed
- â¼ to â½ tsp red chili powder
- â½ cup masoor dal or red lentils
- 2 medium sized tomatoes chopped
- 1 green chili (optional)
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 red chili broken
- 2 cloves chopped
- â¼ tsp mustard (optional)
- â½ tsp jeera or cumin
- generous pinch of hing or asafoetida
- a large pinch of garam masala
- â¼ tsp kasuri methi ((dried fenugreek leaves))
- Carbohydrate 0.84 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.005 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0.125 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00085 g
- Serving Size 1 1 to 3 (124g)
- Sodium 82.856000004007 mg
- Sugar 0.84 g
- Trans Fat 0.0015 g
- Calories 4 calories
Step-by-step
- Add dal to a pot or pressure cooker. Wash it a few times.
- Next add chopped tomatoes, water and green chili.
- Pressure cook for 1 whistle on a medium heat. If cooking in a pot, cook on a medium heat until soft.
- Once the pressure goes down, open the cooker.
- Mash the dal to suit your liking. You can make it smooth or keep it grainy. If needed you can pour 2 to 3 tbsp water to bring it to a consistency.
- Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a small pan.
- Add mustard, cumin, red chilies and garlic.
- Saute until the garlic turns slightly golden.
- Turn off the heat and add hing, chili powder and turmeric. You can also add in garam masala if using.
- Quickly pour this off to the dal.
- Time to add salt and kasuri methi if using.
- Mix and simmer for 2 mins.
- Masoor dal is ready to serve with roti or rice.
My Simple, Everyday Masoor Dal
As a busy working mom, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This Masoor Dal fits the bill perfectly! It's a staple in our house, a comforting and nutritious dish that I can whip up even on my busiest weeknights. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. One day I might serve it with fluffy rice and a dollop of plain yogurt, and the next it's the perfect accompaniment to some freshly baked roti. The subtle earthy flavor of the red lentils combined with the aromatic spices creates a symphony of taste that satisfies my cravings for something both hearty and healthy. The whole family loves it, and it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies too.
I've adapted this recipe over the years, tweaking it to suit my taste and the ingredients I have on hand. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bit of extra zing, or a handful of fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness. Other times, I'll throw in a few chopped spinach leaves during the cooking process for a nutrient boost. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal chopping and cooking time. This makes it ideal for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal. It's also a fantastic dish for meal prepping. I often make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, saving precious time during the busy workdays. It reheats beautifully and the flavors actually deepen over time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Masoor Dal recipe is a must-try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients.
Beyond the everyday: This recipe isn't just for weeknight dinners. I’ve taken this simple dish to potlucks, picnics, and even on camping trips. It's easily transportable and holds up well, even at room temperature for a short time. The rich aroma and comforting taste make it a welcome addition to any gathering. It’s a delicious reminder of home, no matter where I am. I often find that even the most elaborate dishes sometimes fail to provide the same level of comfort and satisfaction as this simple lentil soup.
Variations and Tips: While the recipe calls for basic spices, don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavor profiles. A pinch of asafoetida adds a unique depth of flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as finely chopped carrots, potatoes, or green beans, to enhance the nutritional value and add texture. For a creamier dal, simply blend a portion of the cooked lentils before adding the tempering. The possibilities are endless!
This Masoor Dal is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a comforting tradition that brings my family together. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, expertly combined, to create a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and deeply satisfying.
