Dill Leaves Toor Dal Recipe (Shepu/Suva Dal Recipe)
Dill Leaves Toor Dal, a comforting North Indian dish, is a perfect blend of earthy lentils and the distinctive flavor of dill leaves, known as Shepu in Marathi or Suva in Hindi. This easy-to-make recipe combines protein-packed toor dal with aromatic spices to create a delicious vegetarian main course that pairs beautifully with Indian breads like phulkas or steamed rice.
This wholesome recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend lunches. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this delightful dish step by step.
Ingredients
Below is a list of all the ingredients required to prepare Dill Leaves Toor Dal. These simple yet flavorful ingredients work together to bring out the best of this recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1½ cups |
| Dill leaves (Shepu/Suva) – chopped | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Onion – finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 |
| Ginger – grated | 1-inch piece |
| Tomatoes – finely chopped | 2 |
| Green Chilli – finely chopped | 1 |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon – juice extracted | 1 |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~215 kcal |
| Protein | ~8 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~28 g |
| Fiber | ~5 g |
| Fat | ~6 g |
| Sodium | ~380 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.
Preparation Steps
To ensure the cooking process goes smoothly, prep all your ingredients beforehand. Chop the dill leaves, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and green chili, and measure out your spices. With everything ready, follow the instructions below.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients
Begin by washing the dill leaves thoroughly under running water. Finely chop them and set them aside. Rinse the toor dal several times until the water runs clear. Keep all the ingredients ready. -
Prepare the Tempering
Heat a pressure cooker over medium heat and add a tablespoon of ghee. Once the ghee melts, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to crackle. Add the bay leaf for added aroma. -
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the finely chopped onions, ginger, and garlic to the tempering. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, or until the onions turn soft and translucent. -
Add the Vegetables and Spices
Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes and green chili. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften. Sprinkle in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well to combine. -
Add the Dill Leaves and Dal
Add the chopped dill leaves to the cooker and stir. Add the washed toor dal along with 3 cups of water. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on medium heat for 4–5 whistles. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. -
Mash and Adjust Seasoning
Once the pressure has released, open the lid. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to mash the dal coarsely. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. -
Simmer and Finish
Bring the dal to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice for a tangy finish. Add an extra drizzle of ghee, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Transfer the Dill Leaves Toor Dal to a serving bowl and serve hot. This flavorful dal pairs perfectly with:
- Phulkas: Soft and fluffy Indian flatbreads.
- Steamed Rice: The mild sweetness of steamed rice complements the earthy flavors of the dal.
- Ringna Batata Nu Shaak: A side dish of spiced eggplant and potato that balances the meal beautifully.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Dill Leaves Toor Dal
- Balancing the Dill Flavor: Dill leaves have a distinct taste that might be overwhelming if overused. Stick to the recommended quantity for a balanced flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more green chilies or red chili powder for a spicier dal, or reduce them for a milder version.
- Consistency Matters: For a thicker dal, reduce the amount of water added during cooking. For a soupier consistency, add more water during the simmering stage.
- Enhance with Tadka: For an added layer of flavor, prepare a second tempering (tadka) with ghee, mustard seeds, and garlic, and pour it over the dal just before serving.
Enjoy this hearty, nutritious Dill Leaves Toor Dal with your loved ones, and savor the goodness of home-cooked comfort food. This dish is as nourishing as it is flavorful—a true gem of North Indian cuisine!
