Quick Masoor Dal Recipe | Masoor ki Dal Recipe

post modified on January 16


Written by Puja

This simple, comforting masoor dal Recipe is made with whole brown lentils cooked in the Pressure Cooker until creamy and flavorful. The vegan and gluten-free dal pairs well with rice, quinoa or roti and can also be enjoyed as a soup.

Masoor Dal Recipe

About Masoor Dal Recipe:

Dal is an important part of the Indian main course and in many parts of the country, it is made daily to go with rice or Indian bread like roti, naan, etc.

I grew up eating plain toor/arhar dal every day, that’s like the staple in Bihar, where I come from. The only variation every other day will be in the different chutneys like Coriander Chutney, Mango Chutney, or, Tomato Chutney and the variety of vegetable dishes.

While Toor Dal was a regular, we also saw the occasional Chana Dal and Moong Dal as well. But those were very rare and occasional.

We used to get so bored with Toor Dal that we would pray for some guests to come. Because then the menu would be a special.

Now that I am a food blogger, I try to experiment with making dal in many different ways, so that we don’t feel bored with the same dish every day.

This Masoor Dal recipe is one of my favorites of all the dal recipes that mom would cook. You don’t need any sides if you are making this dal. You only need plain rice and this dal.

There is another Masoor Dal recipe called “Duppha”, which my mom used to make when I was a kid. I will soon be sharing that recipe with you.

Masoor ki dal is a variant of the many dal varieties that are available and is unique primarily because of the flavor that it gives the dal. People who like Dal makhani are sure to like masoor ki dal as well, just like my husband.

(The reason I said that this dal is similar to Dal makhani is because, this too has a slightly thicker consistency like dal makhani.)

My husband likes it with mango ginger pickle which adds to the taste of the dal because of the mango flavor in it. It gives a slight sourness to the dal.

Masoor Dal

Serving Suggestion:

Masoor dal can be served with steamed rice, jeera rice, ghee rice, or any flavored rice. You can also serve it with roti, chapati, naan, or paratha. A simple salad, pickle, or raita can also accompany the dal for a complete meal.

Masoor dal is also a great option for Lunch and Dinner. You can even pack this for lunch boxes as it is filling and nutritious.

Storage Suggestion:

Masoor dal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a microwave or on a stove before serving. 

Pro Tips:

Use a pressure cooker or instant pot to cut down cooking time and make the dal super soft and creamy.

Adjust consistency by adding water or simmering uncovered if the dal gets too thick.

Experiment with spices like curry leaves, red chili, garam masala, etc. to make the dal your own.

Why you Should Make this Recipe:

There are many reasons why one should make this recipe of masoor dal. Here are some of them:

  1. Masoor dal is a rich source of protein, fiber, iron, folate, and antioxidants. It helps in lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. It also supports digestion, immunity, and skin health.
  2. Masoor dal is easy to cook and does not require much preparation. It is also budget-friendly and widely available.
  3. Masoor dal is versatile and can be flavored with different spices and herbs. You can also add other vegetables, greens, or beans to the dal for more variety and nutrition.
  4. Masoor dal is delicious and satisfying. It has a creamy texture and a sweet and nutty taste. It is comfort food that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Looking for Some More Recipes like this:

Masoor Dal Kadhi

Whole Moong Dal Kadi

Masoor Dal Fty

Lehsuni Toovar Dal

Dal Palak Recipe

Masoor Dal

Basic Ingredients Used to Make this Recipe:

Masoor Dal: This is the main ingredient of the recipe. Masoor dal is also known as red lentils, orange lentils, or pink lentils. It is also a rich source of protein, fiber, iron, folate, and antioxidants. If you do not have masoor dal, you can substitute it with moong dal, toor dal, or chana dal, but the taste and cooking time will vary.

Onion: Onion adds a nice flavor and aroma to the dal. It also helps in thickening the dal and adding some sweetness. You can use any type of onion, such as red, white, or yellow. If you do not have onion, you can use shallots instead.

Ginger: Ginger adds some heat and spice to the dal. It also has many health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive properties. You can use fresh ginger root or ginger paste for this recipe. If you do not have ginger, you can use ginger powder instead.

Garlic: Garlic enhances the taste and fragrance of the dal. It also has many health benefits, such as antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. You can use fresh garlic cloves or garlic paste for this recipe. If you do not have garlic, you can use garlic powder.

Green chili: Green chili adds some heat and spice to the dal. It also balances the sweetness of the lentils and the tomato. You can use any type of green chili. Also, you can adjust the amount of green chili as per your spice level. If you do not have green chili, you can use red chili powder.

Turmeric powder: Turmeric adds a beautiful color and a mild earthy flavor to the dal. It also has many medicinal properties.

Salt: Salt enhances the flavor and seasoning of the dal. It also helps in cooking the lentils faster and softer. You can use any type of salt, such as table salt, sea salt, or rock salt. You can also adjust the amount of salt as per your taste and preference.

Cumin seeds: Cumin seeds add a nutty and smoky flavor to the dal. They also aid in digestion and metabolism. If you do not have cumin seeds, you can use mustard seeds.

Kasturi methi leaves: Kasturi methi leaves add a fragrant and floral flavor to the dal. They also enhance the taste and appearance of the dish. You can skip it if you don’t have one.

Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is used to saute the spices and aromatics for the dal. It also adds some moisture and richness to the dish. You can use any type of vegetable oil. If you do not have vegetable oil, you can use butter, ghee, or coconut oil.

Water: Water is used to cook the lentils and adjust the consistency of the dal.

Masoor Dal

This simple, comforting masoor dal is made with whole brown lentils cooked in the Instant Pot until creamy and flavorful. The vegan and gluten-free stew pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa or roti and can also be enjoyed as a soup.
No ratings yet
Print Pin Save Recipe! Rate
Share on Facebook
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Masoor Dal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 783kcal
Author: Puja

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Masoor Dal
  • 1 Onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Ginger optional
  • 10 Garlic Cloves finely chopped
  • 4 Green chilli finely chopped
  • 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1 tsp Kasturi methi leaves
  • Coriander leaves finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed

Instructions

  • Heat vegetable oil in a pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds. When it starts spluttering add chopped chillies, garlic and ginger.
    masoor dal 1
  • When it is slightly brown add onions, turmeric powder and salt keep on stirring until onions become golden brown.
    masoor dal2
  • Add chopped tomatoes and stir for 2 to 3 minutes again.
    masoor dal3
  • Wash the dal properly and transfer it into a pressure cooker. Add water as required and cook till 5 to 6 whistles of the pressure cooker.
  • Open the lid of the pressure cooker once it cools down and add Coriander leaves and kasturi methi to it. Mix well.
    masoor dal4
  • Masur ki Dal goes well with plain rice.
    masoor dal5

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Masoor Dal
Amount Per Serving
Calories 783 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 0.4g3%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 1g
Sodium 623mg27%
Potassium 2052mg59%
Carbohydrates 142g47%
Fiber 64g267%
Sugar 15g17%
Protein 50g100%
Vitamin A 101IU2%
Vitamin C 47mg57%
Calcium 200mg20%
Iron 16mg89%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Post a picture to Instagram & Mention @thetastesofindia or tag #thetastesofindia!

Frequently Asked Questions About this Recipe:

Is masoor dal good for health?

Yes, masoor dal is high in protein, fiber, iron, folate, and other nutrients. It is low in fat and calories, making it a very healthy pulse.

Is masoor dal gluten-free?

Yes, lentils are naturally gluten-free.

My Recommended Product:

In case you are looking for a Casserole to serve this delicious masoor dal, then you might want to check out the below-mentioned product. These Casserole are beautifully designed and are perfect for storing and serving dal items.

Please note that this recommendation is based on my personal experience and preferences, I encourage you to do your own research and choose a product that best suits your needs and budget.”

You can even check out my PAGE on Amazon, where you will find my favorite kitchen tools, Appliances, Accessories, and more HERE.

Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a small commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission

I receive from your purchases. I am an independent blogger and the reviews are done based on my own opinions. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

You Might Also Want to Try:

Check out some of my favorite recipes, you might want to try during this Winter.

Sarson ka saag

Sarson ka sag is a Northern Indian winter specialty. Mustard greens, a few other greens, and spices are used to make it. Sarson ka saag goes really well along with makke ki roti.
Check out this recipe
sarson ka sag

Makke ki Roti

Makke ki roti is a delectable, somewhat sweet maize flour or cornmeal-based roti that’s ideal for a winter lunch or dinner, especially when paired with Sarson ka Saag.
Check out this recipe
makke ki roti

Tisi Pitha Recipe

Tisi Pitha Recipe is a healthy Bihari Sweet Dish also known as Chikana ka Pittha. It is a very rich and nutritional recipe since it includes alsi / flaxseeds and gur. It is said that we should eat a spoon of flaxseeds and a small piece of jaggery every day to stay healthy.
Check out this recipe
tisi pitha recipe

Khoi Laddoo – How to Make Khoya Moa Laddu

Moa laddoo is a dessert that can be served at any time. It’s quick and easy to make, and it tastes great. It is one of the most popular Bengali desserts.
Check out this recipe
khoi laddoo

If you liked this Masoor Dal Recipe and happen to make them in your kitchen, do tag me on Instagram and share pictures with me using #TheTastesofIndia.

Please take a moment to rate the recipe and leave a comment below to let us know what you thought. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our recipes and providing you with the best culinary experiences.

So, if you have any tips, suggestions, or variations you would like to share, please don’t hesitate to do so. And don’t forget to share the recipes on your favorite social network sites. 

Happy Cooking!!! 

This post was last updated on 16th January 2024.

A self-proclaimed Champion Cook, who gets the confidence from the love and praises showered upon me by my family consisting of a Cute little Daughter and a husband who loves the Internet more than me (LoL..) and who incidentally happens to be the man behind the technical aspects of this blog.
I love working from home and the benefits that come from it and that is why I started this blog where I document all my adventures with cooking.
Follow me on my journey..

Read More Articles:

5 Ingredient Healthy Chocolate Strawberry Yogurt Clusters Recipe

Want to receive Recipe updates into your inbox every week?

  • No more missing out on our latest recipes
  • Save your recipe emails for referring to it in the future
  • No fluff or, spam. Just pure value
Signup for today!
You will get one short email per week. You can unsubscribe anytime.
>