Dal Tadka is a popular and delicious Indian dish made from lentils (dal) tempered with aromatic spices. It is a staple in many Indian households and is often enjoyed with rice or Indian bread such as roti or naan. Here’s a recipe for Dal Tadka:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow or red lentils (toor dal or masoor dal)
– 3 cups water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, combine the lentils and water. Add turmeric powder, half of the chopped onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are cooked and soft. This may take around 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.
4. Add the remaining chopped onions, chopped garlic, and asafoetida to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy.
6. Once the lentils are cooked, use a whisk or spoon to mash them slightly to thicken the consistency.
7. Add the cooked tomato-onion mixture to the lentils and stir well. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Add more salt if needed.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
10. Heat a small amount of ghee or oil in a separate small pan. Add some cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Pour this tempering over the dal, creating the “tadka” effect.
11. Serve hot Dal Tadka with steamed rice or Indian bread of your choice.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of Dal Tadka, a comforting and nutritious dish that is loved by many!