Yellow Split Pea Dal

Savor the comforting flavors of Yellow Split Pea Dal, a soul-warming Indian-inspired dish that's hearty, nutritious, and bursting with spices. This dal features tender yellow split peas simmered to perfection and infused with a fragrant blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. A layer of richness is added through coconut oil or ghee, while a final tempering of mustard and cumin seeds elevates every bite. Finished with a vibrant touch of fresh cilantro and a zesty splash of lemon juice, this versatile recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or soft naan. Whether you're seeking a vegetarian main course or a protein-packed side dish, this dal is a wholesome, flavor-forward addition to your dinner table. Perfect for meal prep or cozy weeknight dinners, it’s easy, healthy, and irresistibly delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow split peas
• 4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 unit green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 unit dried red chili (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the yellow split peas thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a large pot, combine the rinsed split peas and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low, partially cover, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the split peas are tender and breaking apart. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4

While the split peas cook, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they start to crackle, add the dried red chili (if using), chopped onions, garlic, and ginger.

Step 5

Sauté the onion mixture until the onions are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in turmeric powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander, and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Once the split peas are cooked, add the onion mixture to the pot along with salt and garam masala. Stir well to combine and simmer for another 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice and fresh chopped cilantro.

Step 8

In a separate small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or ghee on medium heat. Add a pinch of mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them sizzle. Pour this tempered oil over the dal right before serving.

Step 9

Serve warm with steamed rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1367.8 grams (1367.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1074

Total Fat 33.10g	42%
Saturated Fat 24.00g	120%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2471mg	107%
Total Carbohydrate 151.40g	55%
Dietary Fiber 58.00g	207%
Total Sugars 23.00g
Protein 54.90g	110%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 302mg	23%
Iron 17mg	92%
Potassium 2484mg	53%

*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: 26.5%

Protein: 19.6%

Carbs: 53.9%