Moong Dal is a simple Indian dal made with dhuli moong dal (split petite yellow lentils). Tempered with mustard, cumin seeds, garlic & curry leaves this dal is comforting, vegan and makes a wholesome dish. It can also be easily made gluten free.
1cupmoong dal dhuli200 grams, also known as split petite yellow lentils
3cupswater24 oz
1mediumtomatochopped
1/2teaspoonturmeric powder
1/4teaspoonred chili powderor to taste
3/4teaspoonsaltor adjust to taste
Tempering/Tadka
1tablespoonoil15 ml, or you can also use ghee
1/2teaspooncumin seeds
1/2teaspoonmustard seeds
1/4teaspoonhingasafoetida
5-6largegarlic clovessliced
1-2dried red chilies
6-7curry leaves
half lemonjuice of
chopped cilantro
Instructions
Add the rinsed moong dal along with 3 cups water, tomato, turmeric powder, red chili powder and salt to a pressure cooker or Instant Pot and stir to combine.
Press the high pressure or manual button and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes if using an Instant Pot. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes and then do a quick pressure release. If using a traditional pressure cooker, cook for 2 to 3 whistles on high heat. Let the pressure release naturally.
Once the pressure is released, open the lid give the dal a stir. Adjust the consistency of dal at this point to your preference. I added 1/2 cup extra water at this point.
Make the tadka/tempering by heating 1 tablespoon of oil (or you can use ghee) in a small pan on medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add hing and stir.
Add the garlic and dried red chilies and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until garlic become light brown in color. Add the curry leaves and stir.
Transfer the tadka to the dal and mix well. Finish by adding lemon juice and cilantro. Serve moong dal over rice or grain of choice for a hearty meal.
Video
Notes
To make this recipe gluten free, skip the hing (asafoetida) or use a gluten-free hing.
You can use ghee or oil to add more flavor and aroma to the dal.