Arhar dal, also known as toor dal or split pigeon peas, is indeed a popular and versatile lentil used in various Indian dishes. It’s great to know that you incorporate it into your everyday meals in different preparations like Sambar, Malwa Dal, Dal Tadka, and Dal Fry.  Arhar dal offers a delicious and nutritious base for these dishes, providing protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. By using arhar dal in different recipes, you can enjoy a range of flavors and textures while benefiting from its nutritional value. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of dal tadka or a hearty serving of sambar, the versatility of arhar dal allows you to explore and create numerous variations to suit your taste preferences. Including lentils like arhar dal in daily meals is an excellent way to incorporate plant-based protein and essential nutrients into a balanced diet. Keep exploring and experimenting with different preparations and flavors to enjoy the goodness of lentils in your everyday meals. The combination of tuvar dal and rice provides a well-balanced and nutritious meal. Tuvar dal is packed with protein, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, while rice serves as a versatile and filling accompaniment. The comforting texture and flavors of the dal, along with the mild and neutral taste of steamed rice, make it a comforting and satisfying option for any time of the day. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a side of vegetables, pickles, or papad, North Indian Homestyle Tuvar Dal and steamed rice is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and contentment with every bite. It’s wonderful to know that you and many others appreciate the comforting and nourishing qualities of this classic combination.

Research to understand the Arhar/Toor Dal

Arhar/Toor dal is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that is cherished in Indian cuisine for its taste, texture, and health benefits. Incorporating toor dal into your diet can add variety, flavor, and nutritional value to your meals.

Basic preparation of Arhar/Toor Dal

For Prepare Arhar/Toor Dal, start by rinsing the dal thoroughly under running water. Then, in a pressure cooker, combine the dal with water, salt, and any desired spices such as turmeric or cumin. Pressure cook the dal until it becomes soft and mushy. In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and other aromatics like onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are golden brown, then add tomatoes and cook until they soften. Add this tempering to the cooked dal, stirring well to combine. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the consistency by adding water if desired. Serve the Arhar/Toor Dal hot with steamed rice or bread of your choice.

Fully recipes directions

For prepare Arhar/Toor Dal, start by rinsing 1 cup of dal thoroughly under running water. In a pressure cooker, add the washed dal along with 3 cups of water, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Pressure cook the dal for about 5-6 whistles or until it becomes soft and mushy. Once the pressure releases, open the cooker and whisk the dal until it reaches a smooth consistency. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee and add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, 1 dried red chili, a pinch of asafoetida, and a few curry leaves. Let the spices sizzle and then add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 finely chopped tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste, and cook until the onions turn golden brown and tomatoes are soft. Add 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala. Mix well and cook for a minute. Pour this tempering over the cooked dal and give it a good stir. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed and let it simmer for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the delicious Arhar/Toor Dal with steamed rice or roti for a wholesome meal.

PREP: 20 MINS

COOK: 20 Min – 30 Min

Difficulties

Normal

SERVES 2 OR 4 WITH

To serve, place a portion of steamed rice or roti on a plate, alongside a serving of toor dal and the dry sabzi. Add laccha onions and a roasted papad on the side. Complete the meal by adding a small portion of kachumber salad for a refreshing touch. Enjoy this homestyle feast that combines the flavors, textures, and indulgence of a complete Indian meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (use oil for a vegan version)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Pressure Cooker Method: Rinse the toor dal under running water until the water runs clear. Drain the dal or In a pressure cooker, add the drained toor dal and 3 cups of water. Pressure cook for 4-5 whistles or until the dal is cooked and soft. Heat ghee or oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown or added the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears, Add the chopped tomatoes and green chili. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy, Added turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute. Once the dal is cooked, open the pressure cooker and add the cooked dal to the pan with the masala. Mix well and bring it to a boil. Simmer the dal for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Adjust the consistency by adding water if desired. Add garam masala and mix well. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Pot Method: Rinse the toor dal under running water until the water runs clear. Drain the dal. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Heat ghee or oil in the Instant Pot with cumin seeds and let them splutter. Added the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown with the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears or added the chopped tomatoes and green chili. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy & Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute. Cancel the sauté function. Add the rinsed toor dal and 3 cups of water to the Instant Pot. Stir well. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the sealing position. Select the pressure cook/manual function and set the timer for 8 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir the dal. Add garam masala and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving: 343 calories; 1.5g fat; 63g carbohydrates; 22g protein; 0mg cholesterol; 17mg sodium.

Experience the sublime flavors of our Arhar/Toor Dali paired with fragrant Basmati Rice, a match made in culinary heaven!