Tadka Wali Arhar Dal Recipe
A Simple & Nutritious One-Pot Delight!
Tadka Wali Arhar Dal is a comforting and wholesome dish, commonly enjoyed in many homes across India. This traditional Awadhi recipe combines the goodness of tuvar dal (arhar dal) with the aromatic flavors of a garlic tempering, known as “tadka,” making it an absolute favorite for lunch or dinner. With a perfect balance of protein, spices, and flavors, this dish is ideal for a nourishing everyday meal that is both easy to prepare and full of taste. This one-pot recipe simplifies the cooking process, while the addition of the garlic tadka elevates its flavor profile, bringing a unique twist to the classic dal.
Ingredients:
For the Dal:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuvar Dal (Arhar Dal) | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Ginger | 1-inch, grated |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Cinnamon | 1-inch piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves | 5 sprigs, finely chopped |
For the Tempering (Tadka):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, chopped |
| Dried Red Chillies | 2, broken |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
Preparation Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dal:
Begin by thoroughly washing the tuvar dal (arhar dal) under running water. Once washed, place the dal in a pressure cooker. Add the following ingredients: thinly sliced onion, grated ginger, turmeric powder, salt, finely chopped tomato, and a 1-inch piece of cinnamon. Pour in 2 1/2 cups of water, and stir everything to combine. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on high heat until you hear 2 whistles. Once the whistles are done, reduce the flame and allow the dal to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Turn off the flame and let the cooker cool down naturally so that the pressure releases. -
Finish the Dal:
Once the pressure has released, carefully open the cooker and stir the dal well to make it smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice and finely chopped fresh coriander leaves. Stir again to mix everything well. -
Prepare the Tadka:
In a separate small pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped garlic and dried red chillies. Sauté until the garlic turns a light golden brown and releases its aromatic flavors, about 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. -
Add the Tadka to the Dal:
Pour the hot tempering (tadka) over the cooked dal and mix gently to incorporate all the flavors. This will infuse the dal with a rich, garlicky aroma. -
Serve:
Your Tadka Wali Arhar Dal is now ready to be served! Enjoy it hot with Tawa Paratha and Bhindi Masala for a perfect meal. You can also serve Masala Buttermilk on the side to complete the meal and enhance the flavors.
Tips:
- Consistency: If the dal is too thick after cooking, simply add a little water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Spice Level: You can adjust the number of dried red chillies in the tempering to suit your spice preferences.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the ghee with oil.
This Tadka Wali Arhar Dal is not just a hearty and satisfying dish, but it’s also a wonderful source of plant-based protein, making it a nutritious option for any meal. Its simplicity and flavor make it a beloved recipe in many Indian households, and its versatility means you can pair it with various sides and rice dishes. A true gem of Awadhi cuisine!
