Today, I’m excited to share a simple yet uniquely delicious Dal Tadka recipe with you.
For this recipe, I’ve used a blend of three types of dals: masoor dal (red lentils), moong dal (split yellow lentils), and chana dal (split chickpeas). However, you can use any dal of your preference.
This dal is prepared in the dhaba style, inspired by roadside restaurants near highways, known for their flavorful and hearty meals. It’s incredibly easy to make and will remind you of the delicious dal served at a restaurant or a cozy roadside dhaba.
“Dhabas” are small eateries located along highways where travellers stop to enjoy their lunch or dinner. In India, dal is a staple dish, prepared in almost every household daily, and each family has its own unique way of cooking it. Some prefer their dal with minimal spices, while others enjoy a spicier version.
The recipe I’m sharing today strikes a perfect balance. It includes a few aromatic spices that enhance the flavour of the dal without making it too spicy. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with jeera rice, roti, or chapati.
1. For the Dal:
⅕ cup moong dal (split yellow lentils)
⅕ cup masoor dal (red lentils)
⅕ cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
1 large onion (finely chopped)
1 large tomato (finely chopped)
Salt to taste
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon sambar masala (optional)
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
Water as needed
2. For the Tadka (tempering):
Add 3 tablespoons oil or ghee
¼ teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
few curry leaves
2-3 whole dried red chillies
2 pinches of red chilli powder
A pinch of turmeric powder
Wash and clean the moong dal, masoor dal, and chana dal thoroughly under running water.
Put the cleaned lentils into a pressure cooker.
Add the chopped onion, chopped tomato, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, sambar masala (optional), and ginger-garlic paste.
Mix everything well, then add enough water to cover the dal.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on medium heat for 5-6 whistles.
After the pressure is released, open the lid and check if the dal is cooked. If not, cook for another 2-3 whistles.
Once the dal is cooked, set it aside.
Heat oil or ghee in a tadka pan.
Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and whole red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until the spices release their aroma.
Turn off the heat and add red chili powder and a pinch of turmeric powder. Mix well.
Pour the prepared tadka over the cooked dal.
Cover the dal with a lid and let it sit for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the flavorful dal tadka with jeera rice, roti, or chapati.
You can also serve it with pickle or papad to enhance the taste further.
Enjoy your delicious dhaba-style dal tadka!
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