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Masoor Dal Tadka

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time45 mins

For the Dal:
 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils), rinsed and drained
 3 cups water
 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
 Salt to taste
For the Tadka (Tempering):
 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
 1 onion, finely chopped
 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
 1-inch piece ginger, minced
 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
 1 tomato, finely chopped
 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
 Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
1

Cook the Dal:

In a large pot, combine the masoor dal, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the dal is tender and broken down, about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

2

Prepare the Tadka:

In a separate small pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds (if using) and let them crackle.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
Stir in the chopped tomato, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

3

Combine Dal and Tadka:

Pour the tadka over the cooked dal and mix well. Simmer the dal for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.

4

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread like roti or naan.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size

150g

Amount per serving
Calories250
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g9%

Saturated Fat 4g20%
Sodium 300mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 35g13%

Dietary Fiber 15g54%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 15g

* The % Daily Value (DV) 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.