Easy Masoor Daal

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Easy Masoor Daal, a wholesome red lentil curry that comes together effortlessly in just 35 minutes. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, featuring tender masoor dal simmered with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and finished with a zesty kick of lime and fresh cilantro. The base of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger creates a rich, flavorful foundation, while optional green chili and red chili powder add a customizable heat. Whether paired with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or enjoyed on its own, this nutritious and protein-packed dish is a must-try for lovers of Indian cuisine. Perfectly balanced, simple to make, and packed with flavor, this Easy Masoor Daal is sure to become your go-to comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
• 3 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice
• 1 small green chili, slit (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the masoor dal (red lentils) thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium pot, add the rinsed lentils and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are soft and slightly mushy. Skim off any foam that forms on top. Once cooked, lightly mash the dal with a spoon or whisk and set aside.

Step 3

In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the diced tomato, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tomatoes soften and the spices are well mixed.

Step 7

Carefully pour the cooked and mashed lentils into the pan with the spice mixture. Mix well to combine and simmer for 5 minutes, adjusting the consistency with water if necessary.

Step 8

Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed. If using, stir in the slit green chili and simmer for another minute for an extra kick.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot with rice, naan, or bread for a hearty, comforting meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1225.9 grams (1225.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	582

Total Fat 29.70g	38%
Saturated Fat 4.20g	21%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2410mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate 64.30g	23%
Dietary Fiber 21.70g	78%
Total Sugars 12.50g
Protein 22.20g	44%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 184mg	14%
Iron 11mg	59%
Potassium 1465mg	31%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.6%

Protein: 14.5%

Carbs: 41.9%