Drumstick Dal Recipe
Description
The Drumstick Dal is a rich, flavorful South Indian dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its blend of spicy green chilies, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic curry leaves. The addition of drumsticks (moringa pods) not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the dal with a unique, earthy taste. Finished off with a fragrant ghee tempering, this dish is a perfect balance of heat, flavor, and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner.
Cuisine
South Indian
Course
Lunch
Diet
Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Drumstick (cut into 3-inch pieces) | 2 pieces |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes (roughly chopped) | 2 medium |
| Green Chillies (slit) | 2 pieces |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Tempering | |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 pieces |
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions
-
Pressure Cook the Dal
In a pressure cooker, combine the toor dal with the sliced onion, chopped tomatoes, slit green chilies, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and 1.5 cups of water. Close the lid and pressure cook for about 3 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Open the cooker and stir the dal gently. Adjust the consistency of the dal with more water, if necessary. -
Cook the Drumsticks
In a separate pressure cooker, add the cut drumsticks, 2 tablespoons of water, and a pinch of salt. Pressure cook for 2 whistles and release the pressure immediately. It is important not to overcook the drumsticks as they should retain their texture and nutrition. -
Combine Dal and Drumsticks
Add the cooked drumsticks to the dal mixture and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the salt and spices as needed. -
Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
Heat the ghee in a small tadka pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Once they pop, add the asafoetida (hing), curry leaves, and dry red chilies. Stir for a few seconds and then turn off the heat. -
Assemble the Dish
Pour the hot tadka over the dal and drumsticks mixture. Stir to ensure the tempering is evenly distributed throughout the dal. Transfer to a serving bowl. -
Serve
The Drumstick Dal is now ready to be served! It pairs beautifully with Pavakkai Poriyal (bitter gourd stir-fry), steaming rice, and a bowl of creamy curd for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a light yet hearty lunch.
Tips for the Best Drumstick Dal:
- Consistency: The dal can be made thicker or thinner depending on your preference. If you prefer a soupy consistency, add more water.
- Freshness of Drumsticks: Fresh drumsticks will impart a better flavor and texture. If they are not available, frozen drumsticks can also be used.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies according to your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the number of green chilies or remove their seeds before adding them.
This Drumstick Dal is an aromatic, nutrient-packed dish that brings the essence of South Indian flavors into your kitchen. The ghee tempering, with its fragrant curry leaves and mustard seeds, elevates the dish to a new level, making it a delightful addition to any meal!
