A simple, soul-satisfying, and comforting lentil recipe. This is so easy to make and also doesn’t take much time. In addition, it goes well with rice or any Indian flatbread. I love to have just a bowl of this dal with a sprinkle of lemon juice for my dinner. It’s vegan and gluten-free as well. Growing up, we used to have whole lentils with roti and a green vegetable every evening. The exceptions were the days when we had stuffed Paratha. The average Indian household consumes dal for lunch every day, and mine was no exception, so we had lentils twice a day. My mom was particular about feeding us healthy meals. She had the skills to make everything so delicious, and that too without using much oil or spices. She always used whole lentils and green vegetables in her cooking. Whole Masoor ki dal or Brown Lentils are particular favorites of ours. It is creamy, filling, and amazingly delicious. Thankfully, my kids love this too. So, whenever possible, I try to recreate these food memories of my childhood days. Furthermore, as a lentil lover, I try to rotate different types of lentils over all seven days.
Why Do I love Whole Masoor Dal?
They are vegan and gluten-free. They are also pocket-friendly and suitable for feeding a family or a big crowd. Furthermore, it is an easy one-pot dish you can easily prepare in under 30 minutes. Lastly, it’s full of fiber and a wholesome protein-packed dish.
How to Prepare Whole Masoor Dal/Brown Lentil
The first step is to wash the lentils properly with tap water. I like to scrub it thoroughly with my fingers and wash it 3-4 times. Then, soak the lentils in sufficient water for 30 minutes. The second step is to cook the lentils in an Instant pot. Turn the saute button on, and then add oil to it. After that, add cumin seeds and red/green chili. When it starts sizzling, add chopped onions and garlic. Saute until they are transparent, and add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, dry mango powder, and salt. Stir it for 1 minute and add chopped tomato to it. Saute till it looks like a cooked masala paste. Then, add lentils and stir. Add water and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. After that, let the pressure release naturally. This lentil is texturally a little thick. Thick lentils taste delicious; however, you can always add water if you like thin dal.
Can You Freeze Whole Masoor Dal/Brown Lentils?
Absolutely, but let it come to room temperature first. Store in freezer-safe containers, and do not store it after thawing.
You May Want To Check out These Lentil recipes.
Dal Palak/Lentil Soup with spinach Instant Pot Moong Dal with Bottle Gourd/Zucchini Instant Pot Dal Bukhara Dal Tadka
