Arhar Dal

Arhar dal, also known as toor dal or split pigeon peas, is a popular Indian lentil dish that is nutritious, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup arhar dal (toor dal), washed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 3 cups water
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2-3 dried red chilies (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnish

For Tadka (Tempering):

• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 4-5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 dried red chili (broken into pieces)
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Dal:

   • In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the soaked and drained arhar dal along with 3 cups of water, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, minced garlic (if using), grated ginger, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chilies (if using).
   • Pressure cook the dal for about 3-4 whistles on medium heat, or if using a pot, cook until the dal is soft and fully cooked. If using a pot, it may take about 25-30 minutes. Once cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker.

2. Mash the Dal:

   • Once the pressure releases, open the cooker and mash the dal using the back of a spoon or a potato masher until smooth. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash it less.

3. Prepare Tadka (Tempering):

   • Heat ghee or oil in a small pan for tempering. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
   • Add sliced garlic and dried red chili pieces. Fry until the garlic turns golden brown.
   • If desired, add red chili powder and quickly stir. Be careful not to burn it.

4. Combine Tadka with Dal:

   • Pour the prepared tempering over the cooked dal and mix well.

5. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning:

   • If the dal is too thick, you can add some hot water to adjust the consistency.
   • Add salt to taste and mix well. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish the Arhar Dal with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread like roti, naan, or paratha.

Enjoy this comforting and nutritious Arhar Dal as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite Indian meal.