Soft Lentil Dal
A simple, comforting dal made with soft red lentils, gently spiced with turmeric and cumin. It's a light, nourishing dish that comes together quickly, perfect for a wholesome and soothing meal.
For 4 servings
Cook the lentils.
In a pressure cooker, combine the rinsed red lentils, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Secure the lid and cook on high heat for 2-3 whistles, or about 10-12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
TIPRed lentils cook very quickly and become soft, so avoid overcooking them which can make them pasty.Prepare the tempering.
- While the lentils cook, heat ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle and become fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the aromatics.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook for another minute until the raw smell is gone.
- Stir in the chopped tomato and cook until it softens and breaks down, about 4-5 minutes.
TIPCooking the tomatoes well is key to developing a rich flavor base for the dal.Combine the dal and tempering.
Once the pressure has released from the cooker, open the lid and gently whisk the dal to get a smooth consistency. Pour the prepared tempering into the cooked dal and mix well.
Simmer and finish.
Bring the dal to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld together. Adjust consistency with a little hot water if it's too thick.
Garnish and serve.
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Serve the soft lentil dal hot with rice or flatbread.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear to remove any dust and excess starch.
- 2For a creamier texture, you can whisk the dal vigorously after pressure cooking.
- 3If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the lentils in a pot with a lid. It will take about 25-30 minutes.
- 4Adjust the amount of water based on your desired consistency. Add less for a thicker dal and more for a thinner one.
- 5Store leftover dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken upon cooling; add a splash of water when reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute the ghee with coconut oil or any neutral vegetable oil to make this recipe completely plant-based.
quickQuick
To save time, use canned lentils. Rinse them well and simmer with the tempering for 10 minutes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Keep the spices very mild. You can also blend the dal after cooking to make it completely smooth for picky eaters.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of simmering for added nutrients and protein.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Red lentils are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Good for Digestion
The high fiber content in lentils aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Heart Healthy
Lentils are low in fat and sodium and rich in folate and magnesium, which contribute to heart health by supporting healthy blood pressure and circulation.
Boosts Energy
As a good source of iron and complex carbohydrates, this dal provides a steady release of energy, helping to combat fatigue.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this dal is very healthy. It's rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. It's also low in fat and easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.