Dal Tadka is a timeless Indian dish made with lentils, tempered with ghee or oil, and spiced perfectly to bring comfort and flavor together. It’s one of the healthiest and easiest Indian meals, perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re new to cooking or a regular kitchen star, this step-by-step guide will make sure you prepare a perfect Dal Tadka that’s healthy, delicious, and satisfying.
🟢 Why Dal Tadka is a Healthy Indian Recipe?
High in plant-based protein
Easy to digest
Made with simple, clean ingredients
No need for heavy cream or butter
Packed with antioxidants and fiber
Let’s get cooking!
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 2–3)
🌾 For the Dal (Lentils):
½ cup Toor dal (pigeon peas)
2 cups water
½ tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
🍅 For the Masala:
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
1 medium tomato (chopped)
2–3 garlic cloves (crushed)
1 green chili (optional, chopped)
½ tsp cumin seeds
¼ tsp mustard seeds
1 dry red chili (optional)
¼ tsp garam masala
1 tbsp oil or ghee (use ghee for authentic flavor)
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
🔪 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Boiling the Dal (Lentils)
1. Take 1 cup of toor dal (pigeon peas) and wash it thoroughly 2–3 times until the water looks clean.
2. Add the washed dal to a pressure cooker. Pour in 2 cups of water, a pinch of turmeric powder, and a small amount of salt.
3. Close the lid and pressure cook on medium flame for 3 to 4 whistles, or until the dal becomes soft and fully cooked.
4.Once the pressure has completely released, carefully open the cooker lid. Use a spoon or a ladle to gently stir and mash the dal until it turns soft and has a slightly creamy texture.
👉 Optional Tip: For a lighter or quicker version, you can use moong dal or masoor dal instead of toor dal.
Step 2: Prepare the Masala Tadka (Tempering)
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil or ghee in a small pan.
2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds – let them crackle.
3. Add dry red chili, garlic, and green chili – sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
5. Add chopped tomato and cook till soft and pulpy.
6. Add garam masala and a pinch of salt.
👉 Tip: For extra aroma, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing).
Step 3: Combine Dal and Masala
1. Pour the masala into the cooked dal.
2. Add ½ cup water if the dal is too thick.
3. Simmer for 3–5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: Final Touch & Garnish
Taste and adjust salt and spice.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Optional: Add a small spoon of ghee before serving for aroma.
🍽️ How to Serve Dal Tadka?
Dal Tadka is versatile. You can serve it with:
Steamed rice or Jeera rice
Chapati, phulka, or paratha
Add sliced onions or pickle for extra taste
🌿 Healthy Tips & Variations
Zero Oil Version: Use water sauté technique or very little ghee.
Protein Boost: Add moong dal or masoor dal mix.
Veggie Twist: Add spinach, carrots, or bottle gourd for more nutrition.
Vegan Version: Use oil instead of ghee.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes
Great for kids and adults
Budget-friendly
Makes a satisfying Indian lunch or dinner
Packed with protein and fiber
📦 Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dal in the fridge (up to 2 days)
Reheat with a splash of water
Tastes even better the next day!
📌 Nutrition Info (Approx per serving)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 7g
📝 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a Healthy Indian Recipe that’s easy, tasty, and satisfying — Dal Tadka is the answer. Whether for a busy weekday or a peaceful weekend lunch, it fits perfectly on your table. Even beginner cooks can follow this and impress the family!
👉 Want more such quick and healthy Indian recipes? Stay tuned and explore the [Healthy Lunch] section on our blog.