Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Combine Dal and Spices

   Add 1 cup of washed and rinsed toor dal, 1/2 cup chopped tomato, 3 peeled garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 2.5 cups of water to the Instant Pot. Mix all ingredients well.

2. 2.Pressure Cook the Dal

   Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes. After cooking, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick pressure release to vent any remaining steam.

3. 3.Smash the Dal

   Once the pressure is released and the lid is open, use a potato masher to gently smash the dal and tomatoes until desired consistency is reached.

4. 4.Add Spinach and Salt

   Add 1/2 tsp of salt (or as required) and 2 cups of finely chopped spinach to the dal. Set the Instant Pot to 'Saute' mode on high. Mix well to combine the spinach with the dal.

5. 5.Boil the Dal

   Allow the dal to boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the dal is too thick, you can add 1/4 cup of water to adjust the consistency.

6. 6.Prepare the Tempering

   In a separate small pan, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil over medium to low heat. Add 1/2 tsp mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp urad dal, 2 dry red chilies, and a pinch of hing (asafoetida). Roast for a few seconds until the spices are fragrant and the urad dal turns light golden brown.

7. 7.Combine Tempering with Dal

   Carefully pour the prepared tempering over the spinach dal in the Instant Pot. Mix well to incorporate the tempering flavors throughout the dal.