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Dal Tadka (Spiced Lentil Curry)

A comforting and flavorful Indian dish, Dal Tadka features creamy lentils cooked with aromatic spices and topped with a tempering of garlic, onions, and chilies.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Dal:

  • 1 cup yellow lentils toor dal or split yellow moong dal
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Tadka (Tempering):

  • 2 tbsp ghee or oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1-2 dried red chilies
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the lentils thoroughly and cook them in a pot or pressure cooker with water, turmeric, and salt until soft and mushy. Mash slightly for a creamy texture.
  • Heat ghee or oil in a pan for the tempering. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until golden brown. Add dried red chilies and red chili powder, cooking briefly.
  • Pour the tempering over the cooked lentils and mix well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

NUTRITION FACTS (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 kcal
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fat: 6 g
Protein: 8 g