Your rating
Not rated yet!
Modify
Dal Tadka
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 cup of yellow lentils (moong dal)
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 3 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 inch of ginger, grated
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
- A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of yellow lentils (moong dal) under running water until the water runs clear.
- In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed lentils, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the lentils are soft and mushy.
- Once the pressure releases, mash the lentils with a spoon and set aside.
- In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add 2 finely chopped tomatoes, 2 slit green chilies, 1 inch of grated ginger, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and oil starts to separate.
- Add 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the cooked lentils into the pan and mix everything together. Add water to adjust the consistency if needed.
- Simmer the dal for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Adjust salt if needed.
- In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
- Pour the tempered spices over the dal and mix well. Turn off the heat.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.
Dal tadka is a popular Indian dish made from lentils and tempered with aromatic spices. Its origins can be traced back to the northern regions of India, where it has been a staple for centuries. The dish is known for its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. One of the key elements of dal tadka is the tempering process, where a mixture of spices, such as cumin, mustard seeds, and garlic, is heated in hot oil and then poured over the cooked lentils. This technique infuses the dish with a burst of intense flavors and adds a tantalizing aroma. Many renowned chefs and restaurants in India have put their own unique spin on dal tadka, incorporating regional ingredients and cooking techniques to create their signature versions of the dish. Some popular variations include using different types of lentils, adding cream for a richer texture, or including a variety of vegetables for added depth of flavor. Today, the best versions of dal tadka can be found in authentic Indian restaurants, where skilled chefs meticulously prepare the dish using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. To achieve the perfect dal tadka at home, it's crucial to get the balance of spices and the tempering process just right. Additionally, using fresh, high-quality lentils and incorporating a variety of aromatic spices are essential for creating an authentic and flavorful dal tadka. For those looking to explore alternative methods of making dal tadka, some chefs recommend using a pressure cooker to cook the lentils, which can help achieve a creamy texture in less time. Additionally, experimenting with different combinations of spices and adjusting the tempering process to suit personal preferences can result in a customized version of this beloved Indian dish.
40 min
4
300 calories
Most popular recipes
BBQ Bacon Burger
A delicious and hearty burger with smoky BBQ sauce and crispy bacon.
30 min
4
650 calories
Sago Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert made with sago pearls, milk, and sugar.
40 min
4
250 calories
Liverwurst Sandwich
A classic and delicious liverwurst sandwich perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
10 min
1
350 calories
Most recent recipes
Gluten-Free Penne with Pesto Sauce and Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
A delicious gluten-free pasta dish with flavorful pesto sauce, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables.
45 min
4
480 calories
Strawberry Waffles with Whipped Cream
Delicious strawberry waffles topped with a dollop of whipped cream, perfect for a sweet breakfast or brunch.
30 min
4
350 calories
Avocado Breakfast Sandwich
A delicious and healthy breakfast sandwich featuring creamy avocado and flavorful ingredients.
15 min
2
350 calories