Masoor Dal Recipe (Red Lentil Curry) – Simple, Healthy & Comforting

 

Masoor Dal Recipe (Red Lentil Curry) – Simple, Healthy & Comforting

Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Curry) is a simple, protein-rich Indian dish made with red lentils, basic spices, and a flavorful tempering (tadka). It is light, nutritious, and perfect for everyday meals.

This easy masoor dal recipe is ideal for beginners and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy to make

High in protein and fiber

Budget-friendly ingredients

Perfect for lunch or dinner

Naturally vegetarian & gluten-free

📝 Ingredients

For Dal:

1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)

3 cups water

½ tsp turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For Tadka (Tempering):

2 tbsp oil or ghee

1 tsp cumin seeds

4 garlic cloves (sliced)

1 dried red chilli

1 onion (finely chopped)

1 tomato (chopped)

½ tsp red chilli powder

½ tsp garam masala

Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Dal

Wash masoor dal thoroughly.

Pressure cook with water, turmeric, and salt for 2–3 whistles (or cook in a pot for 20–25 minutes until soft).

Mash lightly and keep aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tadka

Heat oil or ghee in a pan.

Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Add garlic and dried red chilli; sauté until golden.

Add chopped onion and cook until soft.

Add tomato and cook until mushy.

Step 3: Add Spices

Add red chilli powder and garam masala.

Cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine

Pour cooked dal into the tempering.

Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Masoor Dal tastes best with:

Steamed rice

Jeera rice

Roti or phulka

Papad and pickle

🌟 Expert Tips

Adjust water for desired consistency.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.

For richer taste, use ghee instead of oil.

Add green chillies for extra spice.