Recipe Kanvas Blog

Ingredients:

• 1 cup split yellow lentils (toor dal)
• 4 cups water
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Lentils:

• Cook the Lentils:

• Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a large pot, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.

• Add turmeric powder to the lentils and stir. Cook until the lentils are tender and have a creamy consistency. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

• Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):

• In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat.
• Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds (if using) to the hot oil. Allow them to splutter.

• Saute Aromatics:

• Add chopped onions, green chilies, grated ginger, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

• Add Tomatoes:

• Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and the oil starts separating from the mixture.

• Combine Tadka with Lentils:

• Transfer the tempering mixture (tadka) to the cooked lentils and stir well.

• Season and Garnish:

• Add salt to taste and let the dal simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.

• Serve:

• Serve the plain dal hot with rice or Indian bread (roti, naan).

This simple and wholesome plain dal can be a nutritious and comforting dish. Feel free to adjust the spice levels and consistency according to your preferences.