Dal Shorba Recipe: A Heartwarming North Indian Soup
Dal Shorba, a flavorful and aromatic lentil broth, is a delightful North Indian dish often enjoyed as an appetizer. It combines the comforting texture of moong dal with a blend of spices that create a perfect balance of taste and fragrance. This recipe offers a vegetarian option that is both nutritious and satisfying, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a light yet hearty soup. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dal shorba recipe is sure to warm you up on a cool day.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Peeled) | 1/4 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic Cloves | 6, minced |
| Ginger Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/3 tsp |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Coconut Oil | 2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Fresh Coriander (for garnish) | A handful, chopped |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tsp |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 15 minutes
Total Time
- 25 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Cuisine
- North Indian
Course
- Appetizer
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Moong Dal:
- Start by thoroughly washing the moong dal under cold water. Once rinsed, place the dal in a pressure cooker and add water according to the required consistency.
- Cook the dal for 2 whistles (or until soft). Once the pressure naturally releases, open the cooker and blend the dal using a hand blender until smooth. Set it aside.
-
-
Prepare the Base for the Shorba:
- Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn soft and golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma.
- Add the blended dal along with 2 cups of water to the pan. Stir well to combine everything.
-
Spices and Flavoring:
- Add salt, turmeric powder, ginger powder, black pepper powder, and red chili powder to the pan. Stir to mix the spices into the broth. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The dal should thicken into a slightly creamy consistency, but feel free to adjust the water if you prefer a thinner soup.
-
Finishing Touches:
- Once the dal is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice for a refreshing tangy kick. Set the shorba aside while you prepare the tempering.
-
Tempering the Dal Shorba:
- In a small tempering pan, heat a little more coconut oil. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. The aroma of cumin will infuse the oil, adding depth to the broth.
- Immediately pour the tempering into the dal shorba and stir gently to combine.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Pour the dal shorba into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a pop of color and freshness. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of cumin seeds on top.
Serving Suggestions
Dal Shorba pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads like naan, roti, or even crispy crackers. You can enjoy it as a comforting starter or as a light meal when served with a side of salad or pickles. This healthy, flavorful soup is also a great addition to any meal, whether for lunch or dinner.
Tips & Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to enrich the dal shorba by adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots, spinach, or tomatoes to the broth for extra nutrients and texture.
- Use Ghee: For a richer flavor, you can replace coconut oil with ghee (clarified butter). It adds an authentic touch to the dish.
- Spicy Variation: If you like a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add finely chopped green chilies.
- Lemon Zest: For a citrusy fragrance, you can also add a small amount of lemon zest along with the lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~100 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | Varies by salt added |
| Vitamin C | ~5% of daily value |
| Iron | ~10% of daily value |
Conclusion
Dal Shorba is an easy-to-make, comforting soup that is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more formal gatherings. This recipe brings together the richness of moong dal with the warmth of Indian spices, making it a nourishing and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger meal, Dal Shorba will surely add a flavorful touch to your dining table.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy North Indian soup with your family and friends, and let the warmth and flavor of this dish bring comfort to your day!
