Cozy Whole Masoor Dal Recipe – A Comforting Delight

There’s something magical about the aroma of Whole Masoor Dal simmering on the stovetop, filling your kitchen with warmth and comfort. The earthy scent mingles with spices, making your mouth water in anticipation of that first spoonful. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a little extra love from your food.

I remember the first time I had Whole Masoor Dal at my friend’s house during a chilly winter evening. We gathered around the table, laughter echoing as we savored each bite. It was one of those perfect moments where everything felt right, and the dal played a starring role in our joy. Now, every time I prepare it, I can almost hear our laughter ringing through my kitchen again.

When I served this dal to my family, their eyes lit up as they took their first bites.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Whole Masoor Dal: These lentils are packed with protein and fiber; choose vibrant red ones for the best flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; finely chop it for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; crush them to release their lovely oils.

• Ginger: Grated ginger brings warmth; use fresh for maximum zing.

• Tomato: A ripe tomato balances flavors; chop it finely to blend into the dal.

• Green Chili: Adjust spice levels to taste; slice it for an extra kick.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop it for garnishing just before serving.

• Spices (Cumin Seeds, Turmeric Powder, Garam Masala): Essential for depth of flavor; toast cumin seeds before adding for an extra punch.

• Salt: To taste; season gradually as you cook.

• Water: Essential liquid; adjust based on desired consistency.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Now that we have our ingredients ready let’s dive into making this delicious Whole Masoor Dal together!

Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma.

Add Garlic and Ginger: Toss in minced garlic and freshly grated ginger next. Stir continuously until fragrant, about 30 seconds—this is where your kitchen starts smelling heavenly.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Mix in chopped tomatoes along with cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook until tomatoes soften and meld into a saucy mixture—around 5 minutes should do!

Add Whole Masoor Dal and Water: Rinse the dal thoroughly under cold water before adding it to your pot along with enough water to cover everything by about an inch. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer gently.

Cook Until Tender: Allow the dal to simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. You want that thick consistency that clings lovingly to rice or naan.

Add Final Touches and Serve!: Add salt and chopped green chilies according to taste. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving—this adds freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Now you are ready to enjoy your homemade Whole Masoor Dal! Serve it alongside warm naan or fluffy rice for a heartwarming meal everyone will love!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the whole masoor dal for at least two hours. This short wait allows for quicker cooking and better texture. After soaking, rinse thoroughly, then sauté onions and spices before adding the dal to simmer with water.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with ingredients like coconut milk for creaminess or spinach for extra nutrients. Spice lovers can add green chilies for heat or lemon juice for a zesty twist, making the dish uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Whole Masoor Dal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much during storage.

Cooking Whole Masoor Dal brings back memories of my mom’s kitchen filled with spices and laughter, where every meal felt like a warm hug.

FAQ

What is Whole Masoor Dal?

Whole Masoor Dal is a type of lentil known for its earthy flavor and rich nutrition.

How long should I soak Whole Masoor Dal?

Soak Whole Masoor Dal for at least two hours to ensure tender cooking.

Can I freeze Whole Masoor Dal?

Yes, you can freeze Whole Masoor Dal in airtight containers for up to three months without losing flavor.

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Whole Masoor Dal

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Whole Masoor Dal is a comforting and nutritious dish that envelops you in warmth with every spoonful. Made from earthy lentils and infused with aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it both visually appealing and satisfying. Enjoy it on its own or paired with warm naan or fluffy rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Whole Masoor Dal
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Ginger, grated
• 1 medium Tomato, chopped
• 1 Green Chili, sliced (or to taste)
• ¼ cup Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups Water (adjust based on desired consistency)

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Instructions

1. Soak Whole Masoor Dal for at least two hours.
2. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Mix in chopped tomato, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and garam masala; cook for about five minutes until tomatoes soften.
5. Rinse the soaked dal and add to the pot with enough water to cover by one inch. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
6. Cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Add salt and green chilies to taste; top with fresh cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For creaminess, consider adding coconut milk or spinach. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of green chili or adding lemon juice for zest.