One-Pot Masoor Dal | Easy Indian Lentil Recipe 🍛

This is one of the simplest, most comforting things you can cook. A one-pot masoor dal that’s creamy, warming, and full of flavour, finished with a golden, fragrant tadka.

*NOTE: This water-to-dal ratio and timing apply to cooking on gas.

On induction or electric hobs, heat is applied mostly from the base rather than all around the pan, so water evaporates more slowly and the dal takes longer to thicken.

So if you are cooking this dal on induction or electric hobs, begin with 3.5-4 cups of water and extend the cooking time by 5–10 minutes. Check the consistency and add more water if required, adjusting to suit your heat source.


Ingredients:
• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
• 5 cups water
• 2 juicy tomatoes, chopped
• 1½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp homemade ginger-garlic paste
• Salt to taste

Method:

Add all ingredients to a pot and bring to a rolling boil.
Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook gently for 20 minutes.
Stir and mash the lentils lightly for a smooth, creamy texture.

Tadka (Tempering):

In a small pan, melt a knob of butter.
Add:
• 1 small red onion (or half, if large)
• 4–5 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• A pinch of hing (optional)

Fry until golden and fragrant. Pour over the dal and cover for a minute to infuse.

Serve with:

Warm basmati rice, a simple raita, crunchy salad (tomatoes, onions, cucumber, lime, salt), and lime pickle on the side.

⸻

A bowl of this dal is like a warm hug.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a comment!

#OnePotDal #MasoorDal #IndianFood #ComfortFood #EasyRecipes #CuratingTheTable #TarkaDal