Classic Indian Moong Dal Recipe

Name: Classic Indian Moong Dal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup moong dal (rinsed and drained); 4 cups water; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 2 tbsp ghee (or oil); 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 inch ginger (grated); 1 tomato (chopped); 1 green chili (slit); 1/2 tsp garam masala; 2 tbsp fresh coriander (chopped, for garnish)

35 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A comforting and nutritious Indian moong dal, perfect for a warming meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Moong dal, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a lentil dish that is both nutritious and delicious. This version of moong dal is light, packed with protein, and can be served as a main or side dish. It is perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The dish is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are familiar with Indian cooking or trying it for the first time, this moong dal recipe will guide you through a simple yet authentic experience.

Instructions

Prepare the dal

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed moong dal, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Pro tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the top.

Cook the dal

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the dal is tender and cooked through.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Begin tempering

In a small pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle.

Pro tip: Cumin seeds should turn a shade darker but not burn.

Add aromatics

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onion is golden brown.

Pro tip: This should take about 5 minutes.

Incorporate tomatoes and spices

Add the chopped tomato, green chili, and garam masala to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Pro tip: Smash the tomatoes with the back of a spoon for a smoother consistency.

Combine tempering with dal

Pour the tempering over the cooked dal and mix well. Simmer for another 2 minutes to meld the flavours.

Pro tip: Adjust salt and consistency with water if needed.

Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Pro tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Rinse the dal thoroughly to remove excess starch.
Use fresh ginger and garlic for more flavour.
Adjust the spice level to your preference by altering the chili quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is moong dal?

Moong dal is a type of lentil commonly used in Indian cuisine. It's small, yellow, and cooks quickly.

How many calories are in moong dal?

A serving of this moong dal recipe contains approximately 180 calories.

Can moong dal be made vegan?

Yes, simply replace ghee with a plant-based oil to make it vegan.

How long does moong dal take to cook?

Moong dal typically takes about 20-25 minutes to cook until tender.

How can I store leftover moong dal?

Store leftover moong dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is moong dal healthy?

Yes, moong dal is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your moong dal hot, garnished with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime for added zest. Pair it with steamed basmati rice or warm naan to complete the meal. You can make the dal ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition per serving

180

Calories

Protein

Fat

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