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Tarka Dahl Dish: A Flavorful Journey into Indian Cuisine

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Tarka Dahl is a comforting Indian dish featuring red lentils cooked with spices and a flavorful tempering of onions and tomatoes. Nutritious and easy to make, it’s perfect served with rice or bread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala (optional)
  • Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear (about 2-3 times).
  2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils and 4 cups of water. Add turmeric powder and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft and mushy, stirring occasionally.
  4. Mash the lentils slightly with a whisk or wooden spoon for a creamy texture. Add more water if needed for desired consistency.
  5. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.
  6. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds; let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they start to pop.
  7. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  9. Add chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt; cook for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes soften and break down into a thick sauce.
  10. If using, add garam masala and mix well.
  11. Pour the tarka into the pot with the cooked lentils and stir well to combine.
  12. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes on low heat to meld flavors. Add more water if the dahl is too thick.
  13. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Squeeze in lemon juice for extra tang if desired.
  14. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
  15. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti, and enjoy with pickles or yogurt for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to the tarka.
  • Adjust the spice level by modifying the number of green chilies used.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

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Find it online: https://recipesrefreshing.com/tarka-dahl-dish/