Dive into a world of rich flavors and comforting aromas with our delightful Lasuni Masoor Dal, a vibrant Indian dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds! This quick and easy recipe, featuring the earthy goodness of red lentils paired with the bold punch of garlic and the freshness of cilantro, is not just a meal—it's an experience. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome dish that serves 4, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or impurities.
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed red lentils with 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add turmeric powder. Simmer the lentils, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and mushy, approximately 15-18 minutes.
- In a separate small pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle and become fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until golden brown and aromatic, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in chili powder to the garlic mixture and cook for an additional 15-20 seconds.
- Pour the garlic-spice mixture into the cooked lentils, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Season with salt to taste and mix well.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Let the dal rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your red lentils well before cooking to remove any impurities and ensure a smoother texture in your final dish.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dal, reduce the amount of water slightly. For a soupier consistency, add a bit more water during cooking.
- Ghee or Oil: Using ghee adds a rich flavor, but you can substitute it with any neutral oil if you prefer a lighter option.
- Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference. If you like it spicier, consider adding fresh green chilies along with the garlic.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dal to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This dal pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or roti. Don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch!
- Storage: Leftover dal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
