Red Lentil Dal (Instant Pot)

Step 1: Prepare Instant Pot for Sautéing

Take out the cover of the Instant Pot and put it on sauté mode.

Step 2: Temper Spices

Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is moderately hot, add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, and 1/8 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing). Stir until the seeds start crackling.

Step 3: Add Chilies and Ginger

Add 2 dried whole red chilies and 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced ginger. Stir and roast for about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Remove Garnishes

Carefully take out the roasted ginger and red chilies from the pot. These will be used later for garnishing the dal.

Step 5: Cook Tomatoes and Spices

Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric (haldi), and 1/4 teaspoon of red chili powder. Cook the tomatoes until they are soft and tender.

Step 6: Add Lentils and Water

Add 1/2 cup of washed and drained red lentils to the pot and stir. Then, add 2 cups of water.

Step 7: Pressure Cook the Dal

Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Turn off the sauté mode by pressing 'Cancel'. Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for 14 minutes. Wait until the cooking cycle is complete.

Step 8: Serve the Dal

Once the pressure cooking is done, open the Instant Pot lid. Stir the dal well. The dal should have a good texture for serving with rice or roti. Serve hot, garnished with the previously roasted ginger and red chilies.

• Adjust water quantity based on desired consistency; add more water if serving as a soup.

• Garnish with sliced ginger and red chilies for enhanced flavor and presentation.

• Add other vegetables like spinach or carrots for added nutrition.

• Adjust spice levels to your preference.