Kolhapuri Style Akkha Masoor: A Comforting Whole Lentil Dish For Lunch 

By Deepali Verma

July 14, 2023

As a popular and nutritious lentil variety used frequently in Indian cooking, Akkha Masoor dal, also known as whole lentils, is a great option for a filling and healthy lunch or dinner. 

For Pressure Cooking 

1 cup Masoor 2 ½ cups Water ¼ tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp oil ¼ tsp hing (asafoetida) 

For Tempering 

2 tbsp Oil, 1 tsp Cumin, 1 bay leaf, 1 star anise, 1 inch cinnamon, 1 dry red chilli, 2 tbsp ginger - garlic - green chilli paste, 1 cup onion paste or chopped, ¼ tsp turmeric powder, ¼ tsp garam masala,  1 tsp coriander powder, 1 ½ tsp red chilli powder (adjust spicyness according to taste),  ¼ cup water, Salt, to taste, Sugar, a pinch, 1 green chilli, sliced, Coriander leaves, chopped.  

Step 1 

Wash the masoor dal properly and soak it for 3-4 hours or overnight. Pressure cook with 2 ½ cups water, turmeric, hing, and oil for 2 whistles. 

Step 2 

Heat oil, add cinnamon, star anise, bay leaf, and dry red chilli. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Now add onion paste and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add all the powdered spices and ¼ cup water. Mix everything well and let it cook till oil separates. 

Step 3 

Now, add the cooked masoor dal, salt, and sugar. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes.  Add green chillies and coriander leaves. 

Step 4 

Now, add the cooked masoor dal, salt, and sugar. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes.  Add green chillies and coriander leaves.