A Simple and Delicious Dal Recipe

Written by Lauren Graham

When it comes to vibrant, colorful, and comforting meals, Indian cuisine always hits the spot. Indian dishes are extensively diverse, from lamb biryani to palak paneer. One dish that I find underrated amongst extremely popular meals is the simple yet always delicious dal. But first, let’s start with the ingredient that makes dal what it is.

First, dal is always made using lentils. Lentils are special in that they are legumes that are basically edible plant seeds. They come in a variety of different colors, such as red, orange, yellow, green, brown, and black. These tiny legumes are jam-packed with iron and fiber, making them a wonderful ingredient for anything from soups to salads. Plus, lentils are a great source of protein and are perfect for vegetarian and vegan dishes alike, especially dal.

As previously mentioned, dal is a staple Indian dish made exclusively with lentils. The amazing thing about it is that every region in India has its own take on making dal. Some versions are creamy and curry-like, while others focus more on the soup aspect. However you prefer to prepare it, dal is guaranteed to serve as a big warm hug in a bowl. So here’s a simple and easy recipe inspired by traditional dal that works for a cozy night in.

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Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of red split lentils (also called masoor lentils)

• 3 ¼ cups of water

• ¼ cup of oil, ghee, or butter (I use coconut oil)

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 Roma tomatoes, finely chopped 

Spices:

• ¼ teaspoon of crushed ginger

• 3 tablespoons of garlic

• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds (or powder)

• ½ teaspoon of turmeric 

• ½ teaspoon of chili powder 

• 1 green chili (small varieties like serrano peppers work fine)

• A pinch of salt 

Step 1: Cooking the Lentils

1. The first and crucial step is to wash the lentils. Pour water into the bowl of lentils, and mix and rinse until the water is clear, about three times. 

2. Once the lentils are washed, add them and 3 ¼ cups of water to a large pot.

3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. 

4. After the lentils begin to boil, bring them down to a simmer at low-medium heat.

   1. Make sure to skim off any white foam that rises to the top of the lentils! 

5. Cover slightly with a lid.

6. Let the lentils simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring intermittently so the pot doesn’t burn. 

7. When the lentils can be easily mashed, they're ready. 

Step 2: Preparing the Seasoning (or the Tarka)

1. While the lentils are cooking, add oil to a large pan and place over medium-high heat. 

2. When the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Sauté until fragrant. 

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 8 minutes or until golden. 

4. Add the crushed ginger and garlic for about 30 seconds. 

5. When the mixture is fragrant, stir in the tomatoes, chili, and dry seasonings. 

6. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the oil pools into the middle. 

Step 3: Serving

1. Once the seasoning mixture, or tarka, is complete, stir it into the lentil pot. 

   1. You can also add a cup of water to have a more runny consistency. 

2. Mix to combine.

3. Bring the dal to a simmer for about 5 minutes, or until all flavors are incorporated. 

4. Top with butter, ghee, or a drizzle of plain yogurt. 

5. Serve with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.  

6. Jasmine rice and naan, paratha, and roti also pair wonderfully with this delicious dal! 

7. Enjoy! 

Thumbnail Credit:

https://unsplash.com/photos/a-bowl-of-soup-with-two-spoons-in-it-OdgThmuHD0E