Dal Tadka Recipe
Dal Tadka is a popular Indian dish made from cooked lentils (usually yellow split peas or toor dal) that are tempered with spices, garlic, and ghee (clarified butter). The tempering adds a rich flavor and aroma to the dish. Often served with rice or naan, it’s a comforting and hearty meal enjoyed across India.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Dal:
- 1 Cup Arhar dal (toor dal)
- ¼ Cup Moong dal
- 3 Cup Water
- ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
For the Masala:
- 2 tablespoon Ghee
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 2 Dried red chilies
- ½ teaspoon Asafetida (hing)
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon Red chili powder
For the Final Tadka:
- 1 tablespoon Ghee
- ½ teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 2 Dried red chilies
- A pinch of red chili powder
For Garnishing:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Lentils
- First, wash the lentils well and soak them (optional, but it speeds up cooking!). Then, cook them until soft—use a pressure cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot. Aim for soft lentils that hold their shape, not mushy.
Making the Base
- Next, sauté onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and garlic. This mix creates a flavorful base for the dal. Add salt, turmeric, and red chili powder to enhance the taste.
Creating the Tadka (Tempering)
- Heat oil or ghee, then add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dry red chilies. The hot oil releases the spices' fragrance, making the kitchen smell amazing! Finish with garlic (and ginger if you like).
Combining the Tadka with Dal
- Now, pour the hot tadka into the cooked dal. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend together perfectly.
Garnishing and Serving
- Top with fresh cilantro, a drizzle of ghee, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with fluffy rice or naan, and enjoy the comfort of Dal Tadka!
Notes
Dal Tadka: Flavorful Variations You’ll Love!
1. Switch Up the LentilsFirst, try different lentils! For a lighter dish, moong dal works well, while masoor dal offers a creamier texture. Alternatively, chana dal gives more texture and a nutty flavor. Each choice adds a unique twist! 2. Add More Veggies
Next, boost your Dal Tadka with veggies. Spinach (palak) adds greens, bottle gourd (lauki) brings a mild flavor, and carrots or peas add color and nutrition. These veggies will elevate both the taste and health benefits! 3. Creamy Coconut Twist
For a twist, try adding grated coconut or coconut milk. This makes the dal creamier and gives it a South Indian vibe with a tropical flair. It’s a delicious and rich variation! 4. Spicy Heat
If you like spice, add more green chilies, red chili powder, or garam masala. This will kick up the heat and make your dal even more flavorful! 5. Vegan Delight
Lastly, for a vegan version, swap ghee for coconut oil or mustard oil. Skip the dairy garnish, and you’ll have a tasty, plant-based Dal Tadka!
Tips for Perfect Dal Tadka
1. Perfect Texture of DalFirst, ensure your dal has the right consistency—not too thick or watery. You can easily adjust the water while cooking the lentils to achieve that creamy, smooth texture. Keep an eye on it as it cooks to get it just right! 2. Flavor Balance
Next, balance the flavors of your dal by adjusting the salt, sourness, and spice levels to your liking. Additionally, for a touch of sweetness, add a small pinch of jaggery or sugar to counteract the acidity from the tomatoes. This simple tweak will harmonize all the flavors perfectly! 3. Achieving the Right Tadka
When preparing the tadka, ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the spices but not too hot to burn them. For instance, overcooked garlic can turn bitter, so timing is key for the perfect aroma and flavor! 4. Using Fresh Ingredients
To boost flavor, always use fresh garlic, ginger, and spices. Fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a vibrant burst of freshness that really elevates your dal. It’s the little things that make a big difference! 5. Adjusting the Spice Level
Finally, tweak the spice level according to your taste. If you like it spicy, add more green chilies or chili powder. For a milder dish, reduce the spices a little. It’s all about finding your perfect heat!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Dal Tadka Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
880
% Daily Value*
Fat
36
g
55
%
Saturated Fat
12
g
75
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
4
g
Monounsaturated Fat
20
g
Cholesterol
30
mg
10
%
Sodium
800
mg
35
%
Potassium
1400
mg
40
%
Carbohydrates
128
g
43
%
Fiber
24
g
100
%
Sugar
8
g
9
%
Protein
43
g
86
%
Vitamin A
1000
IU
20
%
Vitamin B1
0.3
mg
20
%
Vitamin B2
0.2
mg
12
%
Vitamin B3
4
mg
20
%
Vitamin B5
0.6
mg
6
%
Vitamin B6
0.5
mg
25
%
Vitamin C
25
mg
30
%
Vitamin E
2
mg
13
%
Vitamin K
6
µg
6
%
Calcium
100
mg
10
%
Iron
6
mg
33
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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