Arhar Dal/ अरहर दाल
Also Known as Pigeon Pea Lentils
- Cook Time: 25.00 min
- Serving size: # 4
- Serve: Hot
- Per Serving Calore: 246.30 Kcal
<p><strong>Arhar Dal</strong>, also known as <em>toor dal</em>, is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can easily be added to your <strong>weekly menu</strong> or <strong>da...Read More
Nutrition Facts
Amount per Serving
Vitamins & Minerals
Arhar Dal (also known as toor dal or split pigeon peas) is not just another lentil—it's a powerhouse of nutrition that deserves a place in your kitchen! Whether you're a fan of easy recipes or looking for healthy breakfast ideas, this humble dal has something to offer. It's a perfect choice for anyone interested in vegetarian meals or trying to add more plant-based protein to their diet.
Arhar dal is loaded with essential nutrients like fiber, protein, iron, and folate. These nutrients make it an excellent option for a balanced dish, providing long-lasting energy and supporting your immune system. And the best part? It's super versatile! You can easily incorporate it into your meal prep for the week with just a few ingredients. Think of it as your go-to one-pot dish recipe for busy days or a quick dish that doesn't compromise on flavor or health.
Arhar Dal can be adapted for any meal of the day, and its mild taste makes it kid-friendly too. Try it as a simple comfort food recipe by adding a bit of ghee, turmeric, and cumin for a rich, aromatic flavor. Need something fast? A quick dish for daily meals could be as simple as sautéing onions, tomatoes, and spices before adding the dal. In just 20 minutes, you'll have a delicious and filling meal!
Plus, Arhar dal is great for seasonal cooking—whether you're cooking in the winter for warmth or in the summer for a light yet nutritious dish. It pairs beautifully with rice or roti and can even be turned into a soup or stew for those colder months.
So, why not give this healthy food a try? Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to enjoy wholesome, satisfying meals that nourish your body every day!
Step 1: Prepare the Dal
Rinse the Arhar dal thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. You can soak it for 20 minutes to speed up cooking, but it’s not necessary. This step takes about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Dal
In a pressure cooker or a pot, add the rinsed dal and enough water to cover it. Cook it on medium heat until the dal becomes soft and mushy. If you're using a pressure cooker, cook for about 3-4 whistles. This step usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your cooking method.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
While the dal is cooking, heat some oil or ghee in a small pan. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Let them splutter for a few seconds, then add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until golden brown, which should take around 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add chopped tomatoes to the pan along with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release oil, about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor and richness to the dal.
Step 5: Combine Dal and Tempering
Once the dal is cooked and soft, add the prepared tempering to the dal. Stir well and let the flavors blend by simmering for another 5-7 minutes. This step brings everything together and enhances the taste.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Garnish
If the dal is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency. Once it reaches your desired thickness, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness. This final step takes about 2 minutes.
Total Time Taken: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
Your delicious and nutritious Arhar Dal is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with rice or roti for a complete meal.