Craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Yellow Split Pea Dal recipe is your answer. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and nutritious dish bursting with aromatic spices. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine and a fantastic example of how simple homemade cooking can be both satisfying and incredibly healthy. Get ready to experience the magic of this simple yet incredibly flavorful lentil dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing, optional, adds a unique flavor)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or coconut oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the ghee or coconut oil in a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for your dal.
Step 2: Add Spices & Ginger-Garlic Paste
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Now add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and asafoetida (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step releases the incredible aromas of the spices.
Step 3: Combine & Simmer
Add the rinsed yellow split peas and vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Season & Serve
Season the dal with salt to taste. Once the peas are cooked through, you can use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some of the peas for a creamier texture. This is optional, but adds a lovely richness to the dal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for the Best Yellow Split Pea Dal:
- Rinse your split peas: This helps remove any dust or debris and ensures a smoother texture.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. If you prefer a milder dal, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked dal can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm peas.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance your dal with other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or potatoes added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Use different lentils: Red lentils or green lentils can also be used, but cooking times may vary.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, it's a generally healthy and low-calorie meal option, perfect for those seeking delicious and nutritious quick dinner ideas.
This Yellow Split Pea Dal is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a healthy and easy weeknight meal. Enjoy!