Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Wash and Soak Dal

   Wash and soak 1/4 cup Masoor dal/Red lentil for 4-6 hours.

2. 2.Blend Dal

   Remove water from the soaked dal and transfer it to a blender. Add some fresh water and salt to taste, then blend to make a smooth paste.

3. 3.Heat Water for Cooking

   Heat approximately 3/4 cup (1 glass) water in a pan until it starts to boil.

4. 4.Cook Dal Mixture

   Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low and add the blended dal paste to the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring constantly with a spatula to prevent lumps and sticking to the bottom. If the mixture becomes too thick, gradually add hot water.

5. 5.Season Dal Mixture

   Add your preferred seasoning (turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder) to the dal mixture and mix well until fully incorporated.

6. 6.Set Lentil Tofu

   Once the dal mixture is slightly cool, transfer it into air-tight containers. Tap gently to remove air bubbles. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours to overnight until set.

7. 7.Cut Lentil Tofu

   After 4-5 hours of chilling, remove the set lentil tofu from the containers. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small, even cubes.

8. 8.Roast Lentil Tofu

   Heat 2-3 teaspoons of olive oil in a pan. Add the lentil tofu cubes and roast them on medium to low heat for 5-6 minutes. Toss or stir occasionally to ensure all sides become golden brown and crispy.

9. 9.Steam Mixed Vegetables

   Steam 2 cups of your chosen mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, corn, and zucchini) until tender-crisp.

10. 10.Assemble Salad Base

    In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed mixed vegetables. Add your preferred seasonings (garlic powder, black pepper, pink salt, oregano, and dried herbs). Squeeze the juice of half to one lemon over the vegetables and mix thoroughly.

11. 11.Add Seeds and Tofu

    Add 1.5 tablespoons of sunflower seeds (or pumpkin/melon seeds) to the vegetable mix for added crunch and protein. Then, add the roasted lentil tofu cubes to the bowl.

12. 12.Final Toss and Serve

    Gently toss all the salad ingredients together to ensure everything is well combined. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, high-protein dal salad.