Dal Tadka

Experience the comforting flavors of India with this irresistible Dal Tadka recipe, a classic dish bursting with warmth and spice. This hearty Indian lentil curry features protein-rich toor dal (pigeon peas) simmered to creamy perfection and enlivened with a fragrant tempering of ghee, cumin, garlic, and green chilies. The smoky, aromatic tadka (tempering) layer is balanced with tangy hints of lemon juice and the robust earthiness of garam masala. Ready in under an hour, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or warm Indian breads like naan or roti, making it a wholesome, satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, this Dal Tadka is a soulful blend of traditional spices and flavors that will leave you craving more.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Toor dal (pigeon peas)
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoons Cumin seeds
• 0.25 teaspoons Asafoetida
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 large Tomato, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
• 4 count Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 count Green chilies, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoons Red chili powder
• 1 teaspoons Coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Garam masala
• 3 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse 1 cup of toor dal under running water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed dal, 3 cups of water, and 0.5 teaspoon of turmeric powder.

Step 3

Close the lid and cook on medium-high heat for 7-8 whistles or until the dal is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4

Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally before opening the cooker. Then, whisk the dal gently for a smooth consistency.

Step 5

Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.

Step 6

Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Step 7

Add 0.25 teaspoon of asafoetida, followed by 1 medium chopped onion. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

Step 8

Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 2 chopped green chilies. Sauté for another minute until aromatic.

Step 9

Add 1 finely chopped large tomato and cook until it becomes soft and the oil starts to separate.

Step 10

Mix in 0.5 teaspoon red chili powder and 1 teaspoon coriander powder. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 11

Pour the cooked dal into the pan, stir well, and bring it to a simmer. Add 1 teaspoon salt or to taste.

Step 12

Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then add 0.5 teaspoon garam masala and give it a final stir.

Step 13

Turn off the heat and add 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix well.

Step 14

Garnish with 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Step 15

Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite Indian bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1319.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1082.1

Total Fat 33.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 17.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 84mg	0%
Sodium 2441.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 156.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 37.3g	0%
Total Sugars 11.6g
Protein 49.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 291.8mg	0%
Iron 13.4mg	0%
Potassium 3712.8mg	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: 26.5%

Protein: 17.7%

Carbs: 55.8%