Arhar Dal

I learned this recipe in Kerala, in one of the local cooking schools in Kochi. It’s the most basic, foundational recipe in many Indian meals and an excellent source of protein. It’s best served with either rice and yoghurt or, even better – parathas.

Arhar dal

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup split red lentils, whole will work too
  • 2,5 cups of water
  • 0.5 teaspoon tumeric
  • 2 teaspoons oil
  • 1 medium sized onion
  • 2 medium sized tomatoes
  • salt

Masala

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
  • 6-7 cloves of garlic
  • 4-5 small shallots

Method:

  • wash and rinse the lentils (dal), cook on low flame for at least 20-25 minutes, until it falls apart and is mushy
  • prepare the masala – fry all ingredients briefly on oil, then tip into the pot with dal
  • season with salt and cook for another few minutes so the flavours combine.

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