Description
A cozy and flavorful Indian dish featuring creamy split yellow lentils and a vibrant blend of spices, topped with a signature tadka.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup split yellow lentils (moong dal)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or a neutral oil)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 serrano pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons coconut oil (for tadka)
- 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 5 to 10 fresh curry leaves
- 1–2 dried red chile peppers (optional)
- Pinches of asafetida (optional)
Instructions
- Sift and soak lentils: Remove any debris from the lentils and soak them in cold water for about 15 minutes before draining.
- Sauté onions: Heat coconut oil in a deep frying pan, add chopped onions, and cook until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and serrano pepper, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in spices: Add curry powder, garam masala, coriander, and turmeric, cooking for 30 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan: Add 2 cups of water and scrape up any browned bits.
- Cook lentils: Add lentils, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes, adding water as needed.
- Stir in tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
- Mix in cilantro: Stir in chopped cilantro and adjust seasonings.
- Prepare tadka: In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. Cook until fragrant.
- Combine & serve: Pour tadka over lentils, gently stir, and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
For a spicier version, add more serrano peppers; for a milder flavor, adjust spices accordingly. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Lentil Tadka, Dal Tadka, Indian Cuisine, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Recipe
