Mix Dal Tadka is a recipe that is prepared regularly in all Indian homes and everyone knows how to make Mix Dal Tadka. But still I would like to share my version of the recipe which turns out amazing and has become my family favourite.
Dal or lentils have always been our staple food in India and we include them in our diet regularly. Dal-rice is comfort food and prepared and savoured daily in all Indian homes.
This Mix Dal Tadka Recipe which I will make today is a Punjabi Style Dal Tadka recipe and has a mix of 4 – 5 different lentils. You can use any dal of your choice, but I prefer to use these as my recipe turns out delicious –
- Tur dal
- Moong dal
- Urad dal
- Masoor dal
- Chana dal
Somedays we just wonder what to cook, or too lazy to cook, then this humble dal always comes to our rescue. Also, due to the ongoing lockdown in Mumbai, we prefer to stay at home and cook whatever is available in the pantry rather than going to the market.
Dal or lentil being nonperishable is always in stock in every Indian home and cooked in many delicious ways. Dal and rice is enjoyed by the kids and seniors as well and very easy to make and hence, we make this quite often nowadays.
What is Tadka Dal ?
Tempering of dal with ghee and spices is called Tadka Dal. Dal and lentils are linked to inflammation and could upset the stomach in certain people, especially the elderly.
As goes the ancient wisdom, ghee is considered a superfood, it is anti-inflammatory and also aids in digestion. Moreover, ghee has a high smoking point and is hence considered perfect for a Tadka or tempering.
Anti-inflammatory spices such as Asafoetida, mustard, and cumin when heated in ghee not only release their aroma but also their medicinal properties. This Tadka when poured over the cooked dal increases its nutritional value and adds flavour to the dish.
How to make Mix Dal Tadka
Let us learn How to make Mix Dal Tadka in a simple and easy way in just under 20 minutes, excluding the soaking time.
- To make Mix Dal Tadka, wash and soak 1 cup dals/lentils in ample water for 15 – 20 minutes and then boil them with salt and turmeric powder.
- While the dal is boiling heat a pan and add 2-3 tbsp ghee/oil and then put in a tsp of cumin seeds.
- When the cumin seeds begin to splutter add one chopped onion and saute till onions are translucent. Now add one chopped tomato and a little grated ginger and cook till the tomato softens.
- Next add 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1/2 tsp of garam masala powder and saute for a minute. Reduce the flame to the lowest to avoid burning. Pour it over the cooked dal, give this a stir and then switch off the flame.
- The Mix Dal is now ready to eat with steamed rice. The recipe is not yet complete because since we are making Mix Dal Tadka, we need to temper this dal or give tadka to the dal.
How to give Tadka to Dal?
To give Tadka or tempering to dal you must use pure ghee. Ghee is high in saturated fats and also aids in digestion. It also renders a wonderful flavour and aroma to the dal.
For the Tadka to Dal
- Heat a small pan and add a tbsp of pure ghee. When the ghee is hot enough add in the following tadka spices
- Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
- Asafoetida – 1/2 tsp
- Dried red chilly – 01 (broken into half)
- Red chilly powder – 1 tsp (optional)
- Now pour this tempering or Tadka on the cooked dal and then garnish with coriander leaves. But now you will experience the awesome aroma of the dal taka. Enjoy this with some steamed rice, parathas or rotis.
Serving Suggestions
Dals are rich in protein and when served with carbohydrates like rice or Rotis, it makes a complete meal.
Serve with steamed rice, jeera rice, or plain Rotis. As an accompaniment to the dal and rice, you can have some pickles, papads, and a bowl of salad.
Other Indian vegetarian recipes for dinner or lunch that you may like to try
Mix Dal Tadka Recipe | How to make Dal Tadka
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mixed dal or lentils washed and soaked Toor, Masoor, Urad, Moong, Chana
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 1 medium Tomato chopped
- 1 inch Ginger grated
- 1 tsp Red Chilly Powder
- ½ tsp Coriander Powder
- ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
- ½ tsp Garam masala powder
- 2 – 3 tbsp Oil/Ghee for cooking
- Salt to taste
Tempering/Tadka
- 1 tbsp Ghee
- ½ tsp Cumin Seed
- ¼ tsp Asafoetida
- ½ tsp Red Chilly Powder
- 1 whole Red Chilly
Instructions
- Boil the dal with sufficient water, salt and turmeric
- Heat a pan, add cumin seed and when the cumin seeds begin to splutter add the chopped onion.
- When onion is translucent add tomato and grated ginger and cook till it softens. Now add the coriander powder, red chilly powder and the garam masala. Stir for 2 – 3 minutes and pour over the cooked dal and combine well.
How to give Tadka to Dal
- Heat a pan and add ghee. Add cumin seeds and asaefotida. Next add one whole chilly.
- When the cumin seeds begin to splutter pour this tadka over the cooked dal.
Notes
- Use pure ghee for tempering the dal.
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