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Instant Pot Masoor Dal Recipe: Simple & Flavorful Instant Pot Masoor Dal Recipe: Simple & Flavorful

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Instant Pot Masoor Dal Recipe: Simple & Flavorful

Written by: Lucas Johnson

This masoor dal recipe is my go-to comfort food. It's hearty, flavorful, and easy to whip up in the instant pot. The spices and fresh cilantro really make it pop!

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I've been cooking masoor dal for years, and this Instant Pot version is a game-changer. Imagine fragrant spices mingling with tender lentils, creating a comforting dish in no time. My family can't get enough of this hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. Let's dive into this flavorful journey together – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Delicious Masoor Dal

  • Masoor dal: Red lentils cook quickly and break down, creating a creamy texture, perfect for a hearty and comforting dal dish.
  • Onion: Onions add a sweet and savory flavor base to the dish, enhancing the overall taste and aroma of the dal.
  • Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide acidity and freshness to balance the richness of the dal, adding a vibrant color and tangy flavor.
  • Garlic: Garlic infuses a robust and aromatic flavor into the dish, elevating the taste profile of the dal.
  • Ginger: Ginger adds a warm and spicy kick to the dal, enhancing the overall depth of flavors in the dish.
  • Green chili: Green chilies bring a subtle heat and freshness to the dal, adding a mild spiciness without overpowering the dish.
  • Turmeric powder: Turmeric powder imparts a golden hue to the dal and offers earthy notes, along with its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Cumin seeds: Cumin seeds provide a warm and nutty flavor, enhancing the aromatic profile of the dal with a hint of earthiness.
  • Mustard seeds: Mustard seeds add a mild heat and a pop of flavor when tempered, contributing to the overall complexity of the dish.
  • Garam masala: Garam masala is a blend of warm spices that adds depth and complexity to the dal, creating a rich and aromatic flavor.
  • Fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color to garnish the dal, enhancing the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot Dal

  • Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the masoor dal quickly and efficiently.
  • Knife: Needed for chopping the onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and green chili for the recipe.
instant-pot-masoor-dal-recipe-simple-flavorful

Instant Pot Masoor Dal Recipe: Simple & Flavorful

A simple and flavorful Instant Pot Masoor Dal recipe that's perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions: 

  • Rinse the masoor dal under running water until the water runs clear.
  • In the Instant Pot, heat oil using the sauté function. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds.
  • Once the seeds splutter, add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until onions are translucent.
  • Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
  • Add the rinsed masoor dal and water. Close the Instant Pot lid and set on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  • Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
  • Stir in garam masala and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes:

This recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. Adjust the spices according to your taste preference.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg

Keywords:

Keyword Instant Pot, Lentils, Masoor Dal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Masoor Dal: Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Prepare the masoor dal as per the recipe instructions.
  • Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Allow the dal to cool down entirely.
  • Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion.
  • Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Masoor dal is a great source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.

Common Questions About Cooking Masoor Dal

FAQ:
Can I use other lentils instead of masoor dal?
Yes, you can substitute masoor dal with other lentils like moong dal or toor dal, but the cooking time may vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of green chilies or add red chili powder according to your taste preference.
Can I skip the garam masala if I don't have it?
If you don't have garam masala, you can skip it, but it adds a nice flavor to the dish. You can try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom as a substitute.
Is it necessary to soak the masoor dal before cooking?
No, it is not necessary to soak masoor dal before cooking, as it cooks relatively quickly compared to other lentils.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor of the dish.

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