Dairy-Free Dal Tadka

Packed with bold Indian flavors and completely free from dairy, this Dairy-Free Dal Tadka is the perfect comfort food for those seeking a plant-based twist on a traditional classic. Made with tender toor dal (split pigeon peas), aromatic spices like cumin and garam masala, and a flavorful tempering of garlic, ginger, and chili, this recipe delivers warmth and richness without relying on any dairy. A quick simmer ensures the spices infuse beautifully into the creamy dal, while a garnish of fresh cilantro and a zesty squeeze of lemon juice add a refreshing finish. Ready in under an hour and perfect for pairing with steamed rice or dairy-free naan, this vegan and gluten-free dish is a nourishing and satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, finely grated
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Green chili, sliced
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 large Tomato, finely chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the toor dal under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the dal in water for 15-20 minutes to soften it.

Step 2

Drain the soaked dal and add it to a pressure cooker along with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt.

Step 3

Cook the dal in the pressure cooker over medium-high heat for 3 whistles or until the dal is soft and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

Step 5

Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and sliced green chili to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the chopped tomato, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until the tomato softens and the oil begins to separate, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 8

Pour the cooked dal into the pan and mix everything well. Simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 9

Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt if needed.

Step 10

Garnish the dal with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Step 11

Serve the Dairy-Free Dal Tadka hot with steamed rice or dairy-free naan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1313.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1051.3

Total Fat 31.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2442.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 156.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 37.1g	0%
Total Sugars 17.2g
Protein 49.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 279.7mg	0%
Iron 12.9mg	0%
Potassium 3721.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 25.3%

Protein: 18.0%

Carbs: 56.7%