One-Pot Dal Tadka: A Quick and Flavorful Comfort Food

One-Pot Dal Tadka is a wholesome and flavorful Indian lentil dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal. Combining the earthy richness of lentils with aromatic spices, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a hearty dish with minimal cleanup. Serve it with steamed rice or flatbreads for a satisfying meal.

Why One-Pot Dal Tadka?

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the taste of traditional dal tadka but wants to simplify the cooking process. By using a single pot, you save time on preparation and cleaning without compromising on flavor. The dish is packed with proteins and nutrients, making it a great choice for vegetarians and anyone looking for a healthy, quick meal.

Ingredients for One-Pot Dal Tadka

For the Dal

• Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas): 1 cup
• Water: 3 cups
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 tsp
• Salt: To taste

For the Tadka (Tempering)

• Ghee or Oil: 2 tbsp
• Cumin Seeds: 1 tsp
• Mustard Seeds: 1/2 tsp
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Green Chilies: 2, slit
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped
• Red Chili Powder: 1 tsp
• Coriander Powder: 1 tsp
• Garam Masala: 1/2 tsp
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: For garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe for One-Pot Dal Tadka

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

1. Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and add it to a large pot or pressure cooker.
2. Add water, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook until the dal is soft and mushy. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2-3 whistles.

Step 2: Prepare the Tadka

1. In the same pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
6. Mix in red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

1. Pour the cooked dal into the tadka mixture and stir well.
2. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Taste and adjust salt and spices as required.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the dal with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or Indian flatbreads like roti or naan.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair One-Pot Dal Tadka with steamed basmati rice and a side of pickles for a complete meal.
• Serve with parathas or naan for a comforting dinner.
• Add a dollop of ghee on top for extra richness.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Dal Tadka

1. Use Fresh Spices: Fresh cumin and mustard seeds to enhance the flavor of the tadka.
2. Adjust Spice Levels: Reduce or increase the green chilies and red chili powder based on your preference.
3. Cook the Dal Well: Ensure the lentils are fully cooked and creamy for the best texture.
4. Add a Smoky Flavor: For a smoky touch, try the dhungar method by infusing the dal with a piece of hot charcoal.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fats: 8g
• Protein: 10g

Read More: Delicious Paneer Do Pyaza Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Cottage Cheese Dish Ready in 30 Minutes

One-Pot Dal Tadka

A quick and flavorful Indian lentil dish cooked in a single pot, perfect for a comforting meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• Large pot or pressure cooker
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

Ingredients for Dal

• 1 cup toor dal split pigeon peas
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Ingredients for Tadka

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1- inch ginger grated
• 2 green chilies slit
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes chopped
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• Cook the lentils with turmeric, salt, and water until soft.
• Prepare the tadka by sautéing spices, garlic, ginger, onions, and tomatoes.
• Combine the cooked dal with the tadka mixture and simmer.
• Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Notes

• Adjust the water quantity based on your preferred dal consistency.
• Use red lentils or moong dal as an alternative to toor dal.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

One-Pot Dal Tadka is a delicious, nutritious, and time-saving dish that brings the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers authentic taste in every bite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort!