Masoor Dal Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Indian Lentil Dish
Masoor dal, also known as red lentils, is a staple in Indian cuisine. It's incredibly versatile, cooks quickly, and is packed with protein and nutrients. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this healthy lentil. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend lunch!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils), rinsed
- 3 cups water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing, optional, adds a unique flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Lemon juice (optional, for a tangy finish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Dal:
- Rinse the lentils: Thoroughly rinse the masoor dal under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any impurities.
- Pressure cook: In a pressure cooker, combine the rinsed lentils and water. Add salt. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles or until the lentils are completely soft and mushy. Alternatively, you can boil the lentils on the stovetop until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Sautéing the Aromatics:
- Heat the ghee/oil: Heat the ghee or vegetable oil in a pan or pot over medium heat.
- Add the spices: Add cumin seeds and asafoetida (if using). Let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Combining and Finishing:
- Add the spices: Stir in the turmeric powder and red chili powder. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.
- Add the cooked dal: Add the cooked masoor dal to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Simmer the dal for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.
Tips for the Perfect Masoor Dal:
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preference. You can also add other spices like garam masala or coriander powder for a richer flavor.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dal, you can simmer it for a longer time or mash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon.
- Variations: Add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or potatoes for a heartier dal.
- Serving suggestions: Masoor dal pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Try it with rice, roti, naan, or even as a side dish with your favorite Indian curries.
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