INDIAN ROOTS · EVERYDAY KITCHENS
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North Indian · Vegetarian

Dal Tadka.

Tender yellow lentils finished with a fragrant cumin-garlic tempering.

◷ ~50 min4 servingsCurry Table version
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Dal Tadka — dish illustration
Dish illustration · Not a photograph of this exact recipe

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

A little context.

Lentil age and variety affect cooking time. Toor dal may need additional water and simmering time.

Read the full method first, measure the ingredients, and prepare the equipment before turning on the heat. Choose the measurement view that works for you.

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CURRY TABLE · HOME-STYLE RECIPE

Dal Tadka

~50 minutes estimated. Lentil age and variety affect cooking time. Toor dal may need additional water and simmering time.

Servings4

US weights are ounces by weight; liquids are US fluid ounces. Values are rounded. Scaling changes ingredient quantities, not cooking time, pan size, or seasoning judgement.

Ingredients

Method

  1. 01

    Rinse the lentils or pulses. Combine with water and turmeric in a large pot; bring to a boil, skim if needed, and lower to a steady simmer.

  2. 02

    Cook until completely tender, adding hot water when needed to prevent scorching. Stir and lightly mash for a creamy texture. Add salt.

  3. 03

    Heat the oil or ghee in a small pan. Add cumin, then garlic, and cook until fragrant without burning.

  4. 04

    Add tomato and chili powder to the tempering; cook until soft. Pour into the cooked dal and simmer briefly.

THE CURRY TABLE TOUCH · OPTIONAL VARIATION

Lemon at the table

Add: 1 tbsp lemon juice

Add a little to each bowl after the tempering. Taste first: tomatoes and personal preference change how much acidity the dal needs.

A suggested variation. Try a small portion first; the planner uses the main recipe only.
A little cooking note

Lentil age and variety affect cooking time. Toor dal may need additional water and simmering time.

Focus view enlarges the recipe text. It does not prevent your screen from sleeping.

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