Tadkewali Masoor Dal Recipe
Tadkewali Masoor Dal is a traditional North Indian dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. With simple ingredients that are commonly found in every Indian household, this dish combines the earthy taste of masoor dal with the aromatic tempering of ghee and spices, creating a meal that’s both wholesome and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a flavorful addition to your dinner spread, this high-protein vegetarian recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Description:
Tadka Wali Masoor Dal is a hearty and nutritious lentil dish cooked with a variety of aromatic spices, fresh ginger, garlic, and onions. The dal is first cooked until tender and then tempered with a fragrant mixture of ghee, cumin seeds, and red chili powder, which enhances the flavors and adds depth to the dish. Serve it with roti, rice, or a vegetable side for a complete meal.
Cuisine:
North Indian Recipes
Course:
Lunch
Diet:
High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Masoor Dal (Lentils) | 1 cup |
| Water | 2-1/2 cups |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves | A little, chopped |
For Tempering:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 tsp |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 30 minutes
Servings:
- 4
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Masoor Dal
- Begin by washing the masoor dal thoroughly. Soak it in water for about 3 to 4 hours to soften the lentils.
- Once the dal has soaked, drain the water and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Cooking the Dal
- Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add the asafoetida, finely chopped ginger, garlic, and onion. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the mix, followed by turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the spices to infuse into the mixture.
- Now, add the soaked masoor dal and salt to the pot. Stir everything together.
- Pour in 2-1/2 cups of water and give the mixture a final stir.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on high heat for 4 whistles. Once the whistles are done, reduce the flame to low and allow the dal to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
Step 3: Preparing the Tempering (Tadka)
- In a separate small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee on medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Once the cumin seeds begin to crackle, add the asafoetida and red chili powder. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combining and Garnishing
- Open the pressure cooker after the pressure has fully released. Check the dal for consistency – if it’s too thick, add a little more water and simmer for a few minutes.
- Stir in freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Pour the prepared tempering (tadka) over the cooked dal and stir to combine.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve the Tadkewali Masoor Dal hot, paired with your choice of Indian flatbread like phulka, or over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of Aloo Palak Sabzi (Potato Spinach Curry) and Khamang Cucumber Salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker dal, reduce the amount of water. If you like it more soupy, add a bit more water while cooking.
- Spice Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder and green chilies based on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, use less chili powder and omit the green chilies.
- Vegan Version: To make the dish vegan, simply replace the ghee with coconut oil or any plant-based oil of your choice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~170 kcal |
| Protein | ~10 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30 g |
| Fat | ~5 g |
| Fiber | ~8 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
Tadkewali Masoor Dal is the perfect dish to bring a rich, flavorful, and protein-packed meal to your table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weekday or preparing a festive lunch, this dish is sure to delight. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this classic dal, and savor every bite!
