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Classic Dal Tadka
45 mintime
Mediumdifficulty
4Servings
Rating
Nutrition facts
300 kcalCalories
12 gProtein
30 gCarbs
15 gFat

Per serving · Approximate values estimated by AI

Classic Dal Tadka

Traditional dish · Indian

A quintessential North Indian lentil dish, Dal Tadka features cooked yellow lentils tempered with aromatic spices, ghee, and herbs. It's a comforting and flavorful staple.

Ingredients

Servings4
  • Toor Dal (split pigeon peas)1 cup
  • Ghee3 tbsp
  • Cumin seeds1 tsp
  • Mustard seeds1/2 tsp
  • Asafoetida (hing)1/4 tsp
  • Dried red chilies2-3
  • Garlic cloves, minced4-5
  • Ginger, grated1 tsp
  • Onion, finely chopped1 medium
  • Tomatoes, finely chopped1 medium
  • Turmeric powder1/2 tsp
  • Red chili powder1/2 tsp
  • Saltto taste
  • Wateras needed
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped2 tbsp

Steps

  1. 1

    Rinse the toor dal thoroughly. Cook the dal in a pressure cooker with water and a pinch of salt until very soft and mushy. Mash lightly.

  2. 2

    Heat ghee in a small pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.

  3. 3

    Add asafoetida and dried red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant.

  5. 5

    Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

  6. 6

    Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until tomatoes soften and oil separates.

  7. 7

    Pour this tempering (tadka) over the cooked dal. Mix well.

  8. 8

    Add salt to taste and adjust consistency with water if needed. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

  9. 9

    Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot.

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