Quick and Easy Tarka Dal is healthy, delicious and tastes just like from the Indian restaurant. Serve with steamed rice, salad and poppadoms for a comforting midweek meal!
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time25 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: dal tarka, dal,dhaal, daal, vegan dal, dal tadka, moong dal, red lentils
Wash the lentils at least 4-5 times in water until clear. Drain and set it aside.
Add lentils, water, turmeric powder, green chilies (optional) to the saucepan and simmer over medium-high heat and cook until tender. Skim the foam on the top. Cooking lentils can take between 18- 20 minutes
Once the lentils are cooked, simply whisk it through for a smooth consistency. Add another 1/4 -1/2 Cup water if the dal is too thick.
Season with salt.
Instant Pot Instructions
Place the washed lentils, 3 cup of water, turmeric, salt, green chilies to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and turn the vent to sealing. Pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes and NPR.
Tadka for Dal
Heat 1 tbsp ghee/oil in another pan and add cumin seeds, fennel seeds,dried red chillies and allow the seeds to pop.
Add onion, ginger garlic and fry for 3 minutes until translucent.
Add the tomatoes, spice powders, salt and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Pour the prepared Tarka to the lentils and stir. Cook again for another 1 minute.
Garnish with coriander leaves and Serve restaurant dal Tarka with roti/rice for a comforting Indian meal.