By Suprita Mitter
January 11, 2025
Dal Tadka is an Indian lentil dish made by tempering cooked dal (lentils) with ghee, cumin, garlic, and aromatic spices. Garnished with coriander and served with rice or roti, this comforting dish is a staple in Indian households and restaurants alike.
1 cup toor dal 3 cups water 1 medium onion 2 medium tomatoes 2-3 cloves garlic 1 inch ginger 2 green chillies
1/2 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp red chilli powder 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 2 tbsp ghee or oil 1/4 tsp asafoetida 1 tsp mustard seeds 2 dry red chillies 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 1 tbsp lemon juice Salt to taste
Rinse 1 cup of toor dal thoroughly and pressure cook it with 3 cups of water, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistles. Mash the dal lightly and set aside.
Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan. Add 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, minced garlic, ginger, and green chillies. Sauté until fragrant.
Add 1 medium onion and sauté until golden. Then, add 2 medium tomatoes, 1 tsp red chili powder, and cook until the mixture turns soft.
Add the cooked dal to the pan and mix well. Adjust the consistency with water if needed. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a small pan. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds, 2 dry red chilies, and 1/4 tsp asafoetida. Let it sizzle.
Pour the tadka over the dal and mix gently. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice.