Lentil Dal with flavorful Tarka
Explore my Lentil Dhal With flavourful Tarka recipe, a culinary masterpiece harmonizing red lentils with aromatic spices to form a flavorful tarka. Dive into a world of rich textures and savory sensations of the Indian cuisine that will elevate your dining experience. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this recipe promises a memorable taste adventure. I love it as a part of my breakfast.
Simple & Professional Tasty Recipes
Ingredients for 4 – 6 Servings
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For The Dhal
250g red lentils, rinsed and drained
1 liter water
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For Tarka:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1-2 dried red chilies
1 sprig curry leaves
Total Time
Goes Great with
Method
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- In a large pot, combine the red lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
- While the lentils are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Let them splutter and become aromatic, stirring occasionally.
- Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the lentils are cooked, add the prepared tarka mixture to the lentil pot. Season with salt according to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Garnish the lentil dhal with fresh cilantro / coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with rice or naan.
Pro Tips- Perfect Lentils: Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring a smooth dhal consistency.
- Tarka Magic: Allow the tarka ingredients to sizzle and release their aroma, infusing the dish with authentic flavors.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili powder according to your spice preference; for milder dhal, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
- Leftovers Upgrade: Dhal tastes even better the next day; the flavors intensify, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy schedules.
Notes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 calories
Goes Great with
2 hours
