Stovetop Masoor Dal - Ancient Indian Style
Main Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step to make the recipe successfully.
Rinse the Masoor Dal
Place 1 cup of masoor dal in a bowl and rinse it thoroughly under running water several times until the water runs clear. Drain the dal completely.
Heat Ghee and Temper Mustard Seeds
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is shimmering, test it by adding one mustard seed. When it sizzles, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds to the pan. Let them pop for a few seconds.
Sauté Spices
Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, and half of the 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the pan. Stir and cook for a few seconds until fragrant, about .
Add Dal and Water
Add the rinsed masoor dal to the pan with the spices. Pour in 3 cups of water and stir well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Dal
Increase the heat to bring the dal to a boil. Once boiling, the heat to medium and let it for about , stirring occasionally. After , add 1 more cup of water as the dal absorbs liquid and thickens.
Check for Doneness and Adjust Consistency
After of , check the dal for doneness. The lentils should be fully cooked and easily mashable against the side of the pan with a spoon. If you prefer a thicker consistency, continue to for a few more minutes, mashing some of the dal against the pan's edge. If you prefer a soupier consistency, add a little more water.
Season and Finish
Turn off the heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, the remaining half teaspoon of black pepper, and the juice of half a lemon to the dal. Stir everything together until well combined.
Serve
Let the dal cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with rice or bread.
Before You Cook
Helpful details before you startIngredient SubstitutionsMissing something? View suitable alternatives.View 2 swaps
No Ghee?
- Unsalted butter (1:1)
- Neutral oil (1:1, lacks the toasted note)
No Ginger (fresh)?
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (per 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1/2 tsp ginger paste (per 1 tsp fresh)
Variations
Simple ways to adapt this recipe.
- For a modern twistCustomise
Add chili powder, chopped tomatoes, onions, or garam masala after sautéing the ginger and spices.
- Use cooking oil instead ofDietary option
Use cooking oil instead of ghee to make the recipe vegan.
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