Masoor Dal Red Lentils

Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor, Masoor Dal Red Lentils is a quintessential Indian comfort food that's as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. This wholesome dish features tender red lentils simmered with earthy turmeric and infused with a fragrant tempering of cumin, garlic, and onions. A splash of tangy tomatoes and warming spices like garam masala and red chili powder elevate the flavor profile, while fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice add brightness to every bite. Perfect as a hearty standalone soup or served alongside steamed rice or naan, this one-pot wonder takes just 40 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option. Packed with plant-based protein and naturally gluten-free, Masoor Dal is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Red lentils (Masoor Dal)
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoons Cumin seeds
• 3 units Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 large Tomato, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoons Red chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Garam masala
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

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

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the lentils are soft and the mixture has a soup-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4

In a separate pan, heat ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6

Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and blend with the onions.

Step 7

Add the red chili powder and garam masala to the pan, mixing well to coat the spices in the oil.

Step 8

Pour the cooked lentils into the pan, mixing everything together. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If the dal is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9

Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.

Step 10

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Step 11

Serve hot alongside steamed rice, naan, or enjoy as a hearty soup.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1278.5 grams (1278.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	602

Total Fat 30.50g	39%
Saturated Fat 17.80g	89%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 72mg	24%
Sodium 2409mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate 65.30g	24%
Dietary Fiber 21.70g	78%
Total Sugars 13.60g
Protein 22.50g	45%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 183mg	14%
Iron 11mg	62%
Potassium 1508mg	32%

*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: 43.9%

Protein: 14.4%

Carbs: 41.7%