One Pot Dal | Simple, Comforting Indian Lentils (Masoor Dal 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: Adjust the ratios of water to your preferred dal consistency. The texture also depends on the pot you use, I cooked this in a heavy cast-iron pot and recommend using a heavy-bottomed one.

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.
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