Spicy Dal

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Spicy Dal, an aromatic and protein-packed Indian dish that's as flavorful as it is nutritious. Made with tender red lentils (Masoor Dal) simmered to creamy perfection, this recipe is elevated by a sizzling tempering (tadka) of cumin and mustard seeds, caramelized onions, garlic, ginger, and a kick of green chili. Infused with bold spices like garam masala, red chili powder, and ground coriander, and rounded out with fresh cilantro and a pop of optional lemon, this vibrant dish is perfect alongside fluffy basmati rice, soft naan, or hearty roti. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, it's an easy, spice-filled solution for a wholesome, plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone seeking a satisfying yet simple comfort food classic.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Red lentils (Masoor Dal)
• 4 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger (grated)
• 1 Green chili (finely chopped)
• 1 medium Tomato (finely chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 0.5 Lemon (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a medium pot, combine the lentils, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils become soft and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the dal thickens too much, add a little more water.

Step 4

While the lentils cook, prepare the tempering (tadka). Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them sizzle and pop for a few seconds.

Step 6

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 8

Add the chopped tomato and cook until the tomato softens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 9

Mix in the red chili powder, ground coriander, and garam masala. Cook for 1 more minute.

Step 10

Pour the tempering mixture into the pot with the cooked lentils. Mix well.

Step 11

Let the dal simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust salt to taste if needed.

Step 12

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, naan, or roti. Optionally, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice on top before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1493.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	605.3

Total Fat 30.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2417.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 68.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.5g	0%
Total Sugars 13.4g
Protein 23.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 223.6mg	0%
Iron 12.1mg	0%
Potassium 1508.0mg	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: 43.0%

Protein: 14.5%

Carbs: 42.5%