Authentic Indian Dal Fry Recipe

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup of yellow lentils (tuvar dal)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 1-2 green chili (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 medium tomato (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Add lentils to a pot along with water and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until lentils are tender and fully cooked.
  3. While the lentils are cooking, heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
  4. Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  5. Add the sliced green chili and ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another couple of minutes.
  6. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and fully cooked.
  7. Stir in the red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
  8. Once the lentils are cooked, add them to the pan and mix well. You can add more water if the dal is too thick.
  9. Finally, add chopped cilantro, crushed kasoori methi, and lemon juice. Stir well and remove from heat.
  10. Serve the dal fry hot with rice or flatbread.

Tools for making

  • Pot - A medium-sized pot to cook the lentils
  • Pan - A frying pan to sauté the onions, tomatoes, and spices
  • Stove - A heat source to cook the dal and sauté the ingredients
  • Spatula - A utensil for stirring and flipping the ingredients
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the onion and tomatoes
  • Cutting Board - A surface for cutting and chopping vegetables
  • Measuring Spoons - Spoons to measure the spices accurately
  • Ladle - A spoon with a long handle for serving the dal
  • Bowls - Bowls to serve the dal and hold the chopped ingredients
  • Serving Spoon - A spoon for serving the dal onto plates
  • Plate - A plate to serve the dal with rice or flatbread
  • Optional: Lemon Squeezer - A tool to extract juice from the lemon

Recipe variations

  • Add diced vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
  • Replace yellow lentils with other lentils like red lentils (masoor dal) or split chickpeas (chana dal) for a different taste.
  • For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk.
  • Include some spinach or other leafy greens for added nutrition.
  • Add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds (methi) along with cumin seeds for a unique flavor.
  • To make it spicier, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or use smoked dried red chilies.
  • For a vegan version, replace ghee with vegetable oil or vegan butter substitute.
  • Experiment with different spices like coriander powder, fennel seeds, or mustard seeds to customize the flavor profile.
  • If you like it tangy, squeeze some fresh lime or add a tablespoon of tamarind paste.

Recipe overview

Dal Fry is a popular and comforting Indian dish made from yellow lentils (tuvar dal). This rich and flavorful delight is a staple in many Indian households and is loved for its simplicity and heartwarming taste. In this recipe, cooked lentils are simmered with a sautéed mixture of onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, then finished off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist. The result is a bowl of wholesome, aromatic dal that is perfect for serving with rice or flatbread. Whether you're new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned veteran, this Dal Fry recipe is straightforward to follow and is sure to impress. Get ready to dive into a bowl of this delicious, soul-soothing dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of lentils? Yes, you can use other types of lentils such as red lentils or split chickpeas (chana dal) as a substitute for yellow lentils.
  2. Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and green chili according to your preference for spiciness.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dal fry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it before serving.
  4. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover dal fry in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
  5. What can I serve with dal fry? Dal fry can be served with steamed rice, jeera rice, plain rice, roti, naan, or any other Indian bread of your choice.
  6. Can I add vegetables to the dal fry? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, carrots, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dal fry.
  7. Do I have to soak the lentils before cooking? No, there is no need to soak yellow lentils before cooking. Just rinse them thoroughly and cook directly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pot - A medium-sized pot to cook lentils
  • Pan - A frying pan or skillet to sauté onions and spices
  • Spatula - A utensil for stirring and flipping ingredients
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping onions, tomatoes, and cilantro
  • Cutting board - A surface for cutting and chopping vegetables
  • Measuring cups - To accurately measure lentils and water
  • Measuring spoons - For precise measurement of spices
  • Ladle - A spoon with a long handle for serving dal
  • Bowls - Serving bowls to serve the dal
  • Spoons - Eating utensils for enjoying the dish

Origin stories

Dal Fry is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in the northern states. It is often served as a main dish and no Indian meal is really complete without a flavorful dal. The term "Dal" simply refers to lentils, and "Fry" signifies the method of frying spices and then mixing them with the boiled lentils. This combination of boiled lentils with a medley of spices provides a perfect balance of flavors, making it a beloved comfort food in many Indian households. Interestingly, each region of India has its own unique way of preparing this humble dish. Some regions prefer to garnish it with ghee (clarified butter), while others like to add a dash of cream for a richer taste. Regardless of the slight variations, Dal Fry has managed to capture the hearts of millions with its simplicity and soulful taste.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.