Masoor Dal Recipe: A Comforting and Nutritious Lentil Delight

 

Masoor Dal Recipe

Introduction:

Masoor Dal, also known as red lentils, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient widely used in Indian cuisine. This dal is known for its delicate flavor, quick cooking time, and high protein content, making it a popular choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. In this blog, we will guide you through a simple and flavorful recipe for Masoor Dal that can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or naan.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)

• 3 cups water

• 1 medium-sized onion (finely chopped)

• 2 tomatoes (finely chopped)

• 2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Rinse the masoor dal under running water until the water runs clear.

   • Soak the dal in water for about 15-20 minutes, which will help reduce the cooking time.

   • Drain the soaked dal and set it aside.

   Cooking the Masoor Dal:

   • In a pressure cooker or a large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.

   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

   • Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

   • Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

   • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.

   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.

   • Add the soaked and drained masoor dal to the pot and stir to coat it with the spices.

   • Pour in water and give it a good stir.

   • If using a pressure cooker, cover with the lid and cook for about 4-5 whistles. If using a pot, cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the dal is tender and cooked through.

   Tempering (Tadka):

   • In a small pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil.

   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

   • Pour the tempered mixture over the cooked masoor dal and mix well.

   • Sprinkle garam masala and give it a final stir.

   Serving:

   • Garnish the Masoor Dal with fresh coriander leaves.

   • Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

   • Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the dal just before serving for a tangy twist.

Tips:

• You can add vegetables like carrots, spinach, or diced potatoes to the dal for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
• For an extra creamy texture, you can add a tablespoon of cream or coconut milk.

Conclusion:

Masoor Dal is a simple yet nourishing dish that provides a great source of protein and essential nutrients. With its comforting flavors and ease of preparation, it has become a staple in many Indian households. By following this recipe, you can savor the goodness of Masoor Dal and enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal. So, roll up your sleeves.