Indian Lentil Soup Dal Shorva

Warm up with a bowl of comforting Indian Lentil Soup, also known as Dal Shorva, a flavorful blend of red lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of citrus. This traditional recipe combines the earthy flavors of turmeric, cumin, and garam masala with the zesty brightness of lemon juice for a well-balanced, nourishing dish. A hearty base of soft-cooked lentils is enriched with a fragrant tomato-spice mixture and topped with fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish. Perfectly suited for a quick weeknight meal or as a starter to an Indian-inspired feast, this protein-packed soup is easily customizable with optional green chilies for heat. Serve it with warm naan or basmati rice for a satisfying, wholesome experience. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot recipe is ideal for busy cooks—healthy, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Red lentils (masoor dal)
• 4 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 medium Tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger (grated)
• 1 Green chilies (sliced, optional)
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro leaves (chopped for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a large pot, combine the lentils, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the lentils simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and mushy.

Step 4

While the lentils are cooking, heat the ghee or cooking oil in a small skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies (if using). Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic begins to turn golden.

Step 7

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a thick paste.

Step 8

Pour the tomato-spice mixture into the cooked lentils and stir to combine.

Step 9

Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 10

Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

Step 11

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Pair with naan, rice, or enjoy on its own!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1505.3 grams (1505.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	590

Total Fat 30.80g	39%
Saturated Fat 17.70g	89%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 72mg	24%
Sodium 2424mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate 61.90g	23%
Dietary Fiber 22.00g	79%
Total Sugars 13.10g
Protein 22.70g	45%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 190mg	15%
Iron 12mg	65%
Potassium 1652mg	35%

*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: 45.0%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 40.2%