Easy Red Lentil Dal (Tarka Dal | Indian Lentil Dish)
This easy red lentil dal (tarka dal) recipe is a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights using just a handful of ingredients, 3 steps, minimal hands-on prep, and ready in under 30 minutes! The results are a naturally plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free, flavorful, hearty, and protein-packed tarka dal!
Sort and rinse the lentils. There can be debris in with the lentils, so just make sure to pick that out and any shriveled lentils. Then add them to a large saucepan with the water (or vegetable stock).
Step 2: Simmer the Lentil Stew
Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, chili, salt, turmeric powder, and chili to the lentils and stir well.
Cover the saucepan with a lid, and cook over medium-low for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.If you find the dhal becomes too thick, add an extra splash of water/veg broth as needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Tadka/tarka and Serve
In a small skillet/pan, heat up the oil or ghee over medium to medium-high heat until shimmery.
Add the minced garlic and ginger and fry (they should sizzle) until the garlic has browned (1-2 minutes).You could also add a pinch of red chili powder or red pepper flakes right at the end for extra flavor/color. Read the "optional add-ins" section for other tarka dal spices – any additions will help make for an even more flavorful dish!
Finally, serve the red lentil stew and pour the tadka over the lentils. I like to serve it this way, so it looks pretty, but I recommend mixing the tempering into the lentils before eating!You could also optionally garnish the tadka/ tarka daal with a swirl of plain yogurt, crispy onions, and/or some parsley or cilantro. Plus, lemon/lime juice!
Notes
For extra flavor: though this method will add an extra step to the recipe, it will also increase the depth of flavor in this dish. Simply sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, add the tomatoes and sauté again for a couple of minutes. Then add the spices and cook for a further minute. Only then add the lentils and water/stock.
To adjust the spiciness: use a fresh chili at your desired heat level and make sure to only add any extra spicy elements (like chili powder/red pepper flakes) "to taste."
For a creamier consistency: you can gently mash (or use an immersion blender) to adjust the overall consistency of the dish as much or as little as preferred.
For a vegan dal recipe: use oil instead of ghee; otherwise, this recipe is naturally vegan.
For more of a dahl soup: add extra water/broth to give the red lentil dahl a soupy consistency.
Check the blog post for more add-ins, serving suggestions, and answers to top FAQs!