Brown Lentil Dhal (Sabut Masoor di Dhal)
Description
Brown Lentil Dhal, or Sabut Masoor di Dhal, is a comforting and aromatic dish that beautifully combines the natural goodness of brown lentils with a rich, flavorful masala paste. A popular vegetarian choice, this dish is infused with the vibrant spices of ginger, turmeric, and garam masala, creating a delightful, medium-spiced experience. This recipe makes for a perfect accompaniment to rice or flatbreads, providing a satisfying, protein-packed meal that is both healthy and nourishing. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or as a side, this lentil dhal is sure to leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Spice Level: Medium
Rating: 3.7 (Based on 87 votes)
Views: 146,798
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brown Lentils (Sabut Masoor) | 200g |
| Water (Cold) | Approx. 1L |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 medium-sized |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 (adjust to taste) |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam Masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
-
Cooking the Lentils
Begin by placing the brown lentils in a pressure cooker. Add about 700 ml of cold water along with 1 tsp of salt. Secure the lid of the cooker, making sure it’s properly locked in place. Bring the water to a boil, allowing the cooker to whistle three times. Once it whistles, reduce the heat and allow the lentils to simmer for about 10 minutes. Turn off the heat but do not remove the lid. Let the cooker sit and cool down until the pressure is released. -
Preparing the Masala Paste
While the lentils are cooking, heat 2 tbsp of butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until they are golden brown. Reduce the heat, then add the chopped tomatoes, grated ginger, chopped green chilli, and turmeric powder. Stir well and cook until the tomatoes have softened and the mixture has reduced to a thick, rich masala paste. This will take around 10 minutes, so be patient and let the flavors meld together. -
Check the Lentils
Once the pressure has been released from the cooker, open the lid. Check the lentils by gently squeezing a few between your fingers. If the lentils are still firm, check the water level. If necessary, add a bit more water and return the lid to the pressure cooker. Bring it back to a boil and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until the lentils are tender and fully cooked. -
Combine the Masala and Lentils
Once the lentils are soft and fully cooked, gently add the prepared masala paste to the cooked lentils. Stir well to combine and allow the dhal to simmer for a few more minutes, letting the flavors infuse together. -
Final Touches
To finish the dish, sprinkle in 1 tsp of garam masala and 1 tbsp of fresh chopped coriander. Stir the dhal and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the spices meld together.
Allergen Information
- Contains Dairy: This recipe contains butter. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, you can substitute the butter with ghee or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Legume Allergies: This recipe contains lentils, which may cause issues for those with legume allergies. If you’re allergic to lentils, consider using a different type of bean or legume.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based and does not contain any animal products, making it a great option for vegetarians.
- Vegan: For a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based option like coconut oil or ghee.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
Tips and Advice
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier dhal, feel free to increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of red chili powder to the masala paste.
- Consistency: The consistency of dhal can vary based on how much water you use. For a thicker dhal, reduce the amount of water in the initial cooking phase. If you prefer a more soup-like consistency, feel free to add more water as needed.
- Serving Suggestions: This brown lentil dhal pairs wonderfully with warm roti, naan, or a simple bowl of steamed rice. You can also serve it with a side of cool yogurt or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The dhal also freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and save some for later. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and warm over medium heat.
Conclusion
Brown Lentil Dhal, or Sabut Masoor di Dhal, is a nourishing, flavor-packed dish that brings together wholesome ingredients and fragrant spices. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for everyday meals, while its rich, satisfying flavor ensures it is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dhal offers a delicious, comforting meal that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Perfect for vegetarians and those following a gluten-free or vegan diet (with substitutions), this dish is a versatile addition to any table. Enjoy it with your favorite flatbread or rice and savor the warm, aromatic flavors of this beloved South Asian classic.
