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Red Lentil Dal (Masoor Dal) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 85 reviews

A flavorful and comforting Red Lentil Dal (Masoor Dal) recipe that combines tender red lentils simmered with aromatic spices and a vibrant tomato-onion tarka. This Indian-inspired dish is perfect for a nutritious, protein-rich meal served with rice or bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Lentil Base

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp ground turmeric
  • 4 cups water

Tarka (Tempering)

  • 3 Tbsp ghee or oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 fresh green chili (jalapeño or Serrano), seeded and minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 oz can diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 tsp garam masala

Finishing

  • Juice of one lemon
  • Optional garnish: chopped cilantro and chopped tomato

Instructions

  1. Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of water, rinsed red lentils, kosher salt, and ground turmeric. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes until lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
  2. Prepare the Tarka: While lentils cook, heat ghee in a 10-inch deep skillet or medium saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and fry until they start to pop, about 1 minute.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced yellow onion and minced green chili to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add Ginger, Garlic, and Tomatoes: Stir in minced ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes with juices, stir to combine, and simmer until heated through, around 5 minutes.
  5. Season the Tarka: Stir in garam masala, remove from heat, and set the tarka mixture aside.
  6. Combine and Adjust Consistency: When lentils are done, remove lid and stir. If too watery, simmer uncovered to thicken. Mix the prepared tarka into the lentils, stirring well to combine.
  7. Add Lemon Juice and Season: Stir in fresh lemon juice and taste for seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
  8. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and chopped tomato if desired. Serve the dal hot alongside steamed Basmati rice and Indian breads such as naan or roti.

Notes

  • Rinsing lentils well before cooking helps remove dust and impurities.
  • Adjust the green chili quantity to control spiciness.
  • Ghee adds richness, but oil can be used for a lighter version.
  • The dal thickens upon standing; add a splash of water if reheating and it becomes too thick.
  • For a vegan version, substitute ghee with oil.

Keywords: red lentil dal, masoor dal, Indian lentil recipe, vegetarian dal recipe, easy dal, lentil stew, Indian comfort food

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/red-lentil-dal-masoor-dal-recipe/