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Easy Green Lentil Dal

Close-up of a bowl of Easy Green Lentil Dal, garnished with fresh cilantro and a spiced tempering.
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A simple, quick recipe for green lentil dal suitable for beginner cooks. This dish cooks fast on the stovetop.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup green lentils (masoor dal)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, slit (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the green lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear.
  2. Combine the rinsed lentils, 4 cups of water, and turmeric powder in a medium pot.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and starting to break down. Skim off any foam that rises to the top during the first few minutes.
  4. Stir in the salt. If the dal is too thick, add a little more hot water until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. While the lentils simmer, prepare the tempering (tadka). Heat the oil or ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
  6. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
  7. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  8. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  9. Stir in the red chili powder and immediately pour this tempering mixture over the simmering dal in the pot. Stir well to combine.
  10. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Green lentils do not require pre-soaking, which saves preparation time.
  • Serve this dal hot with steamed rice or roti (flatbread).
  • For a tangier flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice at the end before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookifyme.com/easy-green-lentil-dal-recipe/