How to make masoor dal

To make Masoor Dal, a delicious red lentil curry, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils (Masoor dal), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes (optional)
• 3 cups water (for pressure cooking)
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the red lentils (masoor dal) under cold running water until the water runs clear. Soaking the lentils for 30 minutes is optional but can help reduce cooking time.
2. In a pressure cooker or a pot, add the soaked lentils and 3 cups of water. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook on medium heat for about 3-4 whistles. If using a pot, bring the lentils to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer until the lentils are soft and fully cooked (approximately 20-25 minutes). Add more water if needed during cooking.
3. In a separate pan, heat the cooking oil or ghee over medium heat.
4. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
5. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute or until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and golden brown.
7. Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and asafoetida (hing). Mix well with the onions and cook for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors.
8. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate.
9. Now, add the cooked red lentils (masoor dal) to the pan with the prepared masala. Stir well and bring it to a simmer.
10. Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding more water if necessary. Add salt to taste and mix well.
11. Let the dal simmer on low heat for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
12. Finally, sprinkle garam masala over the dal and stir to combine.
13. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Your flavorful Masoor Dal is now ready to be served! Enjoy it with steamed rice, roti, or naan for a satisfying and nutritious meal.