Desi Style Dal Tadka Recipe

Dal Tadka is a beloved Indian lentil dish that is bursting with flavor and aroma. This comforting and satisfying dish is a staple in many households, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of yellow lentils (toor dal) cooked to perfection and tempered with a fragrant and spicy tadka (tempering) is simply irresistible.

Dal Tadka Ingredients:

• 200 gm Yellow Lentils (Toor Dal/Tuvar Dal)
• 1/4 tsp Asafoetida (Hing)
• 200 ml Oil (divided)
• 100 gm Chopped Onion
• 1 tbsp Chopped Ginger and Garlic
• 1 tsp Chopped Garlic
• 100 gm Chopped Tomato
• 1 tsp Chopped Green Chili
• 1 tbsp Cumin Seeds
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• 2 tsp Coriander Powder
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For the Tadka (Tempering):

• 2-3 Dried Red Chilies
• 1/2 tbsp Cumin Seeds
• 2-3 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp Red Chili Powder

Dal Tadka Making Process:

• Begin by washing the yellow lentils thoroughly and soaking them overnight or for at least 6 hours. This step helps the lentils cook faster and become more digestible.
• The next day, drain the soaked lentils and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add water, just enough to cover the lentils, and a pinch of salt. Cook the lentils on medium-high heat until the pressure cooker whistles a few times. Reduce the heat to low and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
• Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and mash the cooked lentils with a potato masher or a whisk. The consistency should be thick and creamy, but you can add a little water if it’s too thick for your liking.
• In a separate pan or kadhai, heat 100 ml of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add the asafoetida, chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
• Next, add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes become soft and pulpy.
• Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for a minute or two to allow the spices to release their aroma.
• Add the mashed lentils to the spice mixture and stir well to combine. If the dal seems too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency. Let the dal simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
• While the dal is simmering, prepare the tadka (tempering). In a small pan, heat the remaining 100 ml of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and dried red chilies. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
• Add the minced garlic to the oil and fry until it turns golden brown. Finally, sprinkle in the red chili powder and immediately remove the pan from the heat. Carefully pour this hot, fragrant tadka over the simmering dal.
• Give the dal a final stir to incorporate the tadka and allow the flavors to develop for another minute or two.

Your Dal Tadka is now ready to be served! Garnish it with fresh coriander leaves if desired, and enjoy it hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or naan. The combination of the creamy lentils and the fiery tadka creates an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, as lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals. Dal Tadka is a beloved comfort food that can be enjoyed any time, whether for a simple weeknight meal or a special occasion. Savor every bite and let the aromatic spices transport you to the vibrant culinary traditions of India.

Here are some potential FAQs for the Dal Tadka recipe: 

Q1. Can I use a different type of lentil instead of toor dal (yellow lentils)?

A1. Yes, you can substitute toor dal with other lentil varieties like moong dal (split yellow lentils), masoor dal (red lentils), or a mix of lentils. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different lentils may require more or less time to cook through.

Q2. Can I reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe?

A2. Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of oil used, but don’t skip it entirely as the tempering (tadka) is a crucial component of this dish. You can start with 2-3 tablespoons of oil for sautéing the aromatics and use just a couple of tablespoons for the final tempering.

Q3. Is it necessary to soak the lentils overnight?

A3. While soaking the lentils overnight is recommended for better digestibility and faster cooking, it’s not strictly necessary. If you’re short on time, you can soak the lentils for at least 2-3 hours before cooking or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for a few minutes, then letting them soak for an hour.

Q4. Can I make this dish vegan?

A4. Yes, this dish can easily be made vegan by substituting the oil with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegetable oil, and omitting the asafoetida (hing), which is derived from a plant but may not be considered vegan by some.

Q5. How can I make this dish spicier or milder?

A5. To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of green chilies, red chili powder, or even add a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper to the tempering. To make it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the green chilies altogether.

Q6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned or pureed tomatoes?

A6. Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes work great in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them finely and cook them down until they release their juices and become soft and pulpy.

Q7. How long does Dal Tadka keep in the refrigerator?

A7. Dal Tadka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When ready to serve, you may need to add a little water or vegetable stock to thin out the consistency, as the lentils tend to thicken as they cool.

Q8. Can I freeze Dal Tadka?

A8. Yes, you can freeze Dal Tadka for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.