Dal fry

Story behind the dish

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of dal fry, a quintessential dish in Indian kitchens that offers both nourishment and a burst of vibrant flavors. As a staple in countless homes, this dish has traveled across generations, evolving with each family’s touch but always retaining its heartwarming essence. Imagine spooning into a bowl of tender toor dal infused with aromatic spices — it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a warm embrace after a long day.

Cooking dal fry is more than just preparing a simple lentil dish; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas and sets the stage for a cozy meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, mastering this recipe will bring a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage directly to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (7 oz) toor dal (pigeon peas)
• 2 1/2 cups (20 oz) water, plus extra for soaking
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 3 tablespoons ghee
• 1 cup (6 oz) chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped green chili
• 2 teaspoons shredded fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala

Step-by-step

1. Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and soak it in about 3 cups (24 oz) of water for at least one hour. The dal will double in volume after soaking. Drain the water before cooking.
2. In a pot, combine the soaked dal with 2 1/2 cups (20 oz) of water, salt, and turmeric. Cook over medium-high heat until the dal becomes soft and has a thick, soup-like consistency, about 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a frying pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Wait until they crackle.
4. Add bay leaves, chopped green chili, shredded ginger, and chili powder. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
5. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Cook until the tomatoes are tender and mushy, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped cilantro and garam masala. Cook for about one minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Pour the seasoning into the cooked dal and stir well. Let it simmer together for another minute.
8. Serve hot with fresh naan, rice, or your favorite bread for a truly satisfying meal.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For a richer flavor, garnish the dal with a drizzle of extra ghee or a squeeze of lime before serving.
• Pair your dal fry with warm naan, basmati rice, or even a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete Indian feast.

Closing thoughts

Dal fry isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings comfort and joy to the table. As you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself embracing the process and the warm aromas that fill your kitchen. Perfected with love and a handful of simple ingredients, this dish reminds us that hearty, soulful meals can be both easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Happy cooking!