Authentic Indian Masoor Dal Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils (masoor dal) under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain.
  2. Place the rinsed lentils in a large pot, add 3 cups of water and the turmeric powder. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. While the lentils are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds.
  5. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes golden brown.
  6. Add the finely chopped garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili to the pan. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Stir in the ground coriander, garam masala, and chopped tomato. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the tomato breaks down.
  8. Pour the onion-tomato-spice mixture into the pot with the cooked lentils. Add salt to taste. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
  9. Stir in the lemon juice and garnish with the chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers to the dal for added nutrition.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chili or add red chili powder.
  • Replace the vegetable oil with ghee (clarified butter) for a richer flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of mustard seeds along with the cumin seeds for an extra burst of flavor.
  • For a creamier consistency, add a splash of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
  • Include a handful of split Bengal gram (chana dal) or split pigeon peas (toor dal) along with the red lentils for a mixed dal variation.
  • If you prefer a tangy taste, squeeze in some tamarind pulp or use amchur (dried mango powder) while cooking.
  • For a meat-free option, you can add paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes to the dal or serve it with a side of yogurt or raita.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
  • Top the dal with a tempering of fried onions, garlic, and dried red chilies for added texture and aroma.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the rich, vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe for Masoor Dal. This hearty and comforting dish is made from red lentils simmered with fragrant spices until tender. It's then combined with a flavorful mix of sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes. The whole dish is uplifted with a splash of lemon juice and garnished with fresh coriander. Delightfully spicy and warming, this dish is a staple in every Indian home and is typically served with rice or Indian breads. Whether you're experienced with Indian cooking or trying it for the first time, you'll find this recipe to be straightforward and deliciously rewarding. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use any other type of lentils instead of red lentils? No, red lentils (masoor dal) are the best choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and have a creamy texture.
  2. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dal? Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the dal by adding more or less green chili according to your taste preferences.
  3. Can I skip the garnish? Yes, the garnish of fresh coriander leaves is optional. However, it adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.
  4. Can I use ground turmeric instead of turmeric powder? Yes, you can use ground turmeric as a substitute for turmeric powder. Use the same amount as mentioned in the recipe.
  5. Can I make this dal in advance? Yes, you can make this dal in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pot - A large pot to cook the lentils
  • Frying pan - To sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices
  • Spatula - To stir the lentils and onion-tomato-spice mixture
  • Knife - To chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and tomato
  • Grater - To grate the ginger
  • Cutting board - To chop the vegetables
  • Measuring cups - To measure the lentils and water
  • Measuring spoons - To measure the turmeric powder, cumin seeds, coriander, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice
  • Serving bowls - To serve the cooked masoor dal
  • Garnish spoon - To sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves

Origin stories

Masoor Dal hails from the Indian subcontinent where it's a staple food item in every household. It's interesting to note that the cultivation of lentils, the main ingredient of Masoor Dal, has a history as old as civilization itself. Archaeologists found evidence of lentil cultivation dating back to 8000 B.C. in the Near East. Over millennia, the practice spread throughout Asia and the Mediterranean, eventually becoming a key part of Indian cuisine. The versatility of lentils was appreciated by Indian cooks who created a variety of dishes, among them the beloved Masoor Dal. This nourishing and comforting dish is a testament to the ingenuity of early cooks who took a humble legume and transformed it into a culinary masterpiece that has withstood the test of time.

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.