Learn All About Authentic Dal and Make a Delicious Dal Fry
Recipe Overview
Overview
Dal Fry is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. The dish primarily uses red lentils, which cook quickly and absorb the spices beautifully. The preparation begins with tempering mustard and cumin seeds in hot oil, releasing their aromatic oils into the dish. This is followed by the addition of onions, garlic, and ginger, which create a fragrant base.
As the onions turn golden, ground spices like turmeric and coriander are added, along with tomatoes that break down into a jammy consistency. This step is crucial as it builds the dish’s depth of flavor. The cooked lentils are then mixed in, allowing them to soak up the spiced oil, creating a deliciously hearty meal.
What I love about Dal Fry is its versatility. You can adjust the spices according to your taste, making it as mild or spicy as you prefer. It’s also a great way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into your diet. Serve it with a side of rice or naan, and you have a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and filling. This dish is not just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any day of the week.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Tip: Use black mustard seeds for a stronger flavor, but brown or yellow mustard seeds can be substituted.
Wash the lentils thoroughly.
Add lentils to a saucepan with water and cook until they reach your preferred texture.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them sizzle and pop.
Reduce heat to medium and add ginger, garlic, green chili, onion, and salt. Mix well.
Tip: Hing can help with digestion and reduce bloating, but it's not necessary if you're using onion and garlic.
Add ground coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and optionally garam masala. Mix well.
Add lemon juice and tomatoes, then cook until the tomatoes are jammy.
Add the cooked lentils to the mixture and mix well.
Taste and adjust salt and heat with cayenne or red pepper flakes as desired.
Add more water if the dal is too thick.
Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve with rice, roti, or naan.
Tip: Using a little oil helps carry the flavor of whole spices well; a teaspoon or two is sufficient.
Tip: Cook lentils for a shorter time if you prefer a firmer texture instead of mushy lentils.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!
Interesting Tidbits
- •Dal Fry is a popular Indian dish made with lentils and spices.
- •Different types of lentils can be used to make Dal Fry, including red lentils and split chickpeas.
- •Tempering spices in oil enhances the flavor of the dish.
- •Dal Fry can be served with rice, naan, or a side salad for a complete meal.