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Traditional Moong Dal With Aromatic Indian Spices 1758959057.2817917

Traditional Moong Dal with Aromatic Indian Spices


  • Author: Jusmira Rayne
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Traditional Moong Dal with Aromatic Indian Spices is a hearty, wholesome, and family-friendly recipe. This protein-packed dish offers authentic Indian flavors, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) moong dal (split yellow lentils)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) ghee or cooking oil
  • 1 tsp (5g) cumin seeds
  • 0.5 tsp (2.5g) turmeric powder
  • 0.5 tsp (2.5g) asafoetida (hing)
  • 0.5 tsp (2.5g) garam masala
  • 0.5 tsp (2.5g) red chili powder, adjust to taste
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch (2.5cm) ginger, grated
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 3 cups (720ml) water or vegetable broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • 0.25 cup (10g) fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse Dal: Place 1 cup (200g) moong dal in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold running water for 1-2 minutes until the water runs mostly clear.
  2. Cook Dal: Combine the rinsed dal with 3 cups (720ml) water or broth in a 3-quart pot. Bring to a rapid boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 15-20 minutes until the dal is tender.
  3. Prepare Tempering: In a separate small pan, heat 2 tbsp (30ml) ghee or oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 tsp (5g) cumin seeds; let them splutter for about 15-30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 0.5 tsp (2.5g) asafoetida, 1 chopped onion, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 1 inch grated ginger. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until the onion is golden and softened.
  4. Add Spices and Tomato: Stir in 0.5 tsp (2.5g) turmeric powder, 0.5 tsp (2.5g) red chili powder (adjust to preference), and 0.5 tsp (2.5g) garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, then immediately add 1 chopped tomato. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the tomato has broken down and softened.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the aromatic cooked tempering into the tender moong dal. Stir well to combine all the flavors, add salt to taste, and simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes. (If the dal seems too thick, splash in 0.25 cup hot water until desired consistency.)
  6. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped cilantro.

Notes

For a vegan option, use coconut oil for tempering. Add fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for a healthier meal. Use pre-minced ginger-garlic paste for convenience. Always rinse moong dal thoroughly to prevent foaming. Watch spices closely during tempering to avoid burning and bitterness.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 240 calories
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg

Keywords: Indian, Moong Dal, Lentils, Easy Dinner, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Protein, Spiced, Wholesome, Weeknight