Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This urad dal split recipe is your answer. Urad dal, also known as split black lentils, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein and fiber. This recipe delivers a delicious and comforting bowl of dal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that won't compromise on taste. This homemade cooking method ensures a delicious dish, far surpassing anything you'd find in a restaurant. It’s one of the best recipes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup urad dal (split black lentils), rinsed thoroughly
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) - optional, adds a unique flavor
- 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon curry leaves (optional, adds aroma)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
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Pressure Cooking the Dal: Combine the rinsed urad dal, water, turmeric powder, salt, and green chilies in a pressure cooker. Close the lid and cook on high heat for about 3-4 whistles or until the dal is completely soft and mushy. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Preparing the Tempering: While the dal is cooking, prepare the tempering. Heat ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the asafoetida (if using) and curry leaves (if using). Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
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Combining and Finishing: Once the pressure has released from the cooker, gently mash the cooked dal with a spoon or potato masher. You can leave some whole lentils for texture, or mash completely for a smoother consistency. Pour the tempering over the mashed dal and stir well to combine.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.
Tips for the Best Urad Dal:
- Rinsing is Key: Rinsing the urad dal thoroughly before cooking removes any impurities and helps to improve the taste and texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dal, reduce the amount of water. For a thinner dal, add more water.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies to your liking. You can also add other spices like red chili powder or garam masala for extra flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked dal can become mushy. Cook until it's tender but still holds its shape slightly.
Variations:
- Coconut Milk Urad Dal: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the dal while pressure cooking for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Tomato Urad Dal: Add 1 chopped tomato along with the spices while pressure cooking for a tangy twist.
- Tadka Variations: Experiment with different tempering ingredients like onions, garlic, ginger, or dried red chilies to create unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This simple urad dal recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for weeknights, and a great example of how homemade cooking can be both easy and rewarding. Enjoy!