Simple Dal
Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Simple Dal recipe is a versatile Indian classic that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and hearty lunches. Made with protein-packed yellow split pigeon peas or red lentils, this dish combines earthy spices like cumin and turmeric with the rich aroma of ghee. Fresh garlic, green chili, and tomatoes create a luscious, spiced tempering that infuses every bite with vibrant flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a fragrant finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot wonder pairs effortlessly with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Packed with nutrients and naturally gluten-free, Simple Dal is the ultimate comfort food you’ll love to make again and again. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal) or red lentils (masoor dal)
- 4 cups Water
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Ghee or vegetable oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 2 Garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 Green chili, slit lengthwise (optional)
- 1 Tomato, chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon Red chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions
Rinse the lentils thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the excess water.
In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture gets too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
In a small skillet, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
Stir in the chopped garlic and sauté until lightly golden. Add the slit green chili (if using) and the chopped tomato. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
Add the red chili powder and stir well. Pour this tempered mixture over the cooked lentils and mix to combine.
Let the dal simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust salt to taste if necessary.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.
Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan for a wholesome meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
218 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.3 g | 5% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 9 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 507 mg | 22% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 34.6 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| Protein | 11.8 g | 24% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 71 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 817 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
