What is Yellow Dal?

Yellow Dal, also known as Tadka Dal is a popular and comforting Indian dish made from yellow lentils (usually split yellow moong dal or toor dal). It is renowned for its rich flavor, creamy texture, and aromatic tempering, making it a staple in Indian households. Yellow Dal is not only delicious but also a great source of protein, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow lentils (toor dal)
• 1 and a half glass water
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (Optional)
• 1/4 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1/2 tablespoon chilli powder
• 4-5 garlic cloves
• 2-3 dried red chillies
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1/2 cup Coriander leaves 
• 1/2 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing – optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil yellow lentils

• Rinse the yellow lentils adding cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a pressure cooker, combine the lentils and 1.5 glass of water. Cook until the lentils are soft. It should take about 6-7 whistles. You can also cook them in a regular pot, but it will take longer.

Step 2: Prepare Tadka

• In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoon of oil or ghee.
• Add mustard and cumin seeds.
• Add green chilli and garlic pieces. Add curry leaves and dried red chillies.
• Add chopped onion and cook until they are soft and the oil starts to separate.
• Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Combining Dal and Tempering

• Once the lentils are cooked, add them to the pan with the onion-tomato mixture.
• Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Preparing Tempering (Tadka) This step is optional 

• In a small pan, heat ghee for tempering.
• Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, asafoetida (Hing), and curry leaves. Let them splutter.

Step 5: Adding Tempering to Dal

• Pour the tempering over the cooked dal and mix well.
• Simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 6: Garnishing and Serving

• Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot Yellow Dal with rice / roti/ Naan

Why Yellow Dal is Famous?

Yellow Dal is famous for its simplicity, rich flavor, and wholesome goodness. It’s a comfort food that’s not only delicious but also a nutritious and protein-packed.