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Simple Masoor Dhal (Red Lentil Soup) for Weeknights

A close-up of a bright orange bowl of creamy dhal, garnished generously with fresh cilantro and a swirl of spiced oil.
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Learn how to make authentic, comforting masoor dhal at home. This easy lentil soup recipe is a healthy vegan staple perfect for a quick weeknight Indian dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (for tadka)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (for tadka)
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (for tadka)
  • 2 dried red chilies (for tadka)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (for tadka)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (for tadka)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for tadka)
  • 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) (for tadka)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the masoor dal under cold running water until the water runs clear. You do not need to soak masoor dal.
  2. Combine the rinsed dal, water, and turmeric powder in a medium pot or pressure cooker.
  3. If using a pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.
  4. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2 to 3 whistles, then let the pressure release naturally.
  5. Once the lentils are soft and fully broken down, stir in the salt. If the dhal is too thick, add a little hot water to reach your desired consistency. Keep warm.
  6. Prepare the tadka (tempering): Heat the ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
  7. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Wait until the mustard seeds start to splutter.
  8. Add the dried red chilies, chopped onion, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn light golden brown.
  9. Stir in the asafoetida and cook for 5 seconds more. Do not burn the spices.
  10. Pour the hot tadka mixture immediately over the cooked dhal. Stir gently to combine.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot with rice or roti.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala during the last five minutes of simmering the lentils.
  • If you prefer a spicier dhal, add one finely chopped green chili along with the onions in the tadka step.
  • This simple dal tadka recipe is excellent for beginners learning how to make dal at home.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/simple-masoor-dhal-recipe-for-weeknight-dhal/