Soy-Free Dal Tadka

Delight in the comforting flavors of this Soy-Free Dal Tadka, a wholesome Indian lentil dish infused with bold, aromatic spices. This recipe features tender toor dal (split pigeon peas) simmered to perfection and tempered with a sizzling mix of cumin, garlic, ginger, and tangy tomatoes. Unlike traditional recipes, this version skips soy-based ingredients, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. The finishing touch of garam masala, fresh cilantro, and a splash of lemon juice adds layers of zest and warmth to every bite. Quick to prepare in just 50 minutes, it’s a protein-packed, gluten-free meal that pairs deliciously with steamed rice or soft roti for a comforting, home-cooked experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 4 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or vegetable oil
• 3 units Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Fresh ginger, grated
• 2 units Green chilies, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.25 teaspoon Asafoetida (hing)
• 1 unit Tomato, finely chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the toor dal thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the water.

Step 2

In a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the toor dal, 4 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is soft. If using a pot, cover and simmer on medium heat for about 25-30 minutes or until the dal is cooked and mushy, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

In a separate pan, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds.

Step 4

Add the asafoetida, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the chopped tomato and cook until the tomato becomes soft and pulpy, about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Add red chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder to the pan. Mix well and cook for another minute.

Step 7

Transfer the cooked dal to the pan with the spice mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more water if necessary.

Step 8

Let the dal simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice and fresh cilantro.

Step 10

Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1384.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1023.1

Total Fat 32.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 71.7mg	0%
Sodium 2440.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 143.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 34.6g	0%
Total Sugars 9.9g
Protein 47.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 261.8mg	0%
Iron 13.1mg	0%
Potassium 3386.4mg	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: 28.0%

Protein: 18.0%

Carbs: 54.0%