Moong Dal Tadka

 

Moong Dal Tadka Recipe

Moong Dal Tadka is a popular Indian lentil dish that is simple to make, nutritious, and full of flavor. The dal (lentils) is cooked and then tempered with aromatic spices, giving it a rich, delicious taste.

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Ingredients:

For the Dal:

• 1 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)

• 3 cups water

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) (optional)

• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil

For the Tadka (Tempering):

• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 2 dried red chilies

• 1-2 green chilies, slit

• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Moong Dal:

• Wash the Moong Dal: Wash the moong dal under running water a couple of times until the water runs clear.

• Cook the Dal: In a pressure cooker or pot, add the washed moong dal, water, turmeric powder, and salt. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2-3 whistles on medium heat. If cooking in a pot, cook covered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dal is soft and fully cooked.

• Mash the Dal: Once cooked, mash the dal slightly with the back of a spoon or a hand blender to make it smooth and creamy. Keep it aside.

2. Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):

• Heat Ghee or Oil: In a separate pan, heat the ghee or oil on medium heat.

• Add Cumin & Mustard Seeds: Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add the dried red chilies and green chilies. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.

• Add Ginger & Onion: Add finely chopped ginger and onions. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

• Add Tomatoes & Spices: Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook the mixture for 5-6 minutes, or until the tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate from the masala.

• Add the Dal: Once the tomatoes are cooked, pour in the prepared moong dal and mix well. If the dal is too thick, you can add some water to reach your desired consistency.

• Simmer the Dal: Allow the dal to simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, so the flavors blend well together. Adjust salt if needed.

3. Final Touches:

• Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Moong Dal Tadka hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

• Pair it with a side of pickle and raita for a complete meal.

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Tips:

1. Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the dal by adding more or less water based on your preference.

2. Spice Level: You can increase or decrease the number of green chilies and red chili powder based on your spice preference.

3. Tempering Variations: For extra flavor, you can also add curry leaves or finely chopped garlic to the tadka.

4. For a Richer Taste: You can use ghee for both cooking the dal and for tempering, as it adds a rich flavor to the dish.

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Enjoy your delicious Moong Dal Tadka!