Tadka Dal Fry

Tadka Dal Fry is a wonderful combination of 3 different lentils (dals). The amazing flavors will have everyone guessing which dal they are enjoying. Blend it well for a smooth texture or leave it as is for a rustic treat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes + 20 minutes for soaking

Cook time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:
  • Split pigeon peas (Toor Dal) – ⅓ cup
  • Split mung without skin (Mung Dal) – ⅓ cup
  • Split chickpeas (Chana Dal) – ⅓ cup
  • Water – 3 cups
  • Canola oil – 1 tbsp
  • Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
  • Cumin powder – ½ tsp
  • Coriander powder – 1 tsp
  • Garam masala – ½ tsp
  • Red chili powder – to taste
  • Salt – to taste

For Tadka (Seasoning):
  • Clarified butter (ghee) – 2 tsp
  • Mustard seeds – ½ tsp
  • Cumin seeds – ½ tsp
  • Asafoetida – ⅛ tsp
  • Curry leaves – few
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped
  • Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
  • Green chili – to taste, slit
  • Lime juice – to taste, for garnishing
  • Cilantro – finely chopped, for garnishing

Method:

1. Combine all dals, wash them well and soak for 20-30 minutes.

2. Drain off water and add soaked dals to a pressure cooker.

3. Add water and salt.

4. Pressure cook on medium heat for 3 whistles or 3 minutes after full pressure is attained. Remove from heat and do not open pressure cooker until all internal pressure is released.

5. Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium pan on medium heat.

6. Add turmeric powder and asafoetida.

7. Add onions and a little salt and cook until onions are translucent.

8. Add cumin powder, red chili powder, coriander powder and garam masala. Cook for 10-15 seconds.

9. Stir in cooked dal and adjust salt and water to desired consistency.

10. Bring to a boil and cook for 4-5 minutes.

11. Pour dal in a serving dish and set aside.

12. For the tadka (seasoning), heat clarified butter in a small skillet on medium heat.

13. Add mustard seeds and allow them to pop.

14. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, garlic, ginger and cook for 1 minute.

15. Pour seasoning over dal and garnish with cilantro leaves and lime juice.

This and more recipes can be found in our book "The Healthy Indian Diet."