Best Easy Urad Dal Recipe

Simple yet deeply flavorful, Urad Dal is a classic Indian lentil dish loaded with plant-based protein and fiber. This vegetarian staple supports DASH diet, lower cholesterol, and wholesome family eating.

Cook 50 min Difficulty NORMAL 260 kcal
#vegetarian #DASH #mediterranean #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • split urad dal (black lentils) 1.5 cups
  • water 4 cups
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • tomato 2 pieces
  • ginger 1 tbsp
  • garlic 3 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • ground coriander 1 tsp
  • red chili powder 0.5 tsp
  • garam masala 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
  • cilantro (chopped, for garnish) 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 33 g 50%
Protein 14 g 22%
Fat 7 g 28%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the split urad dal thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak in fresh water for 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant without burning.

  3. 3

    Add finely chopped onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes on medium-high until soft and lightly golden, stirring occasionally.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic and ginger, cook for another 1 minute, then add chopped tomatoes and all remaining ground spices. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes over medium heat, until tomatoes have softened.

  5. 5

    Drain the soaked dal, add it to the pot along with 4 cups water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer gently for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent sticking.

  6. 6

    Check dal consistency: When the lentils are creamy and tender but not mushy, stir in garam masala. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to concentrate flavors if needed.

  7. 7

    Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Urad Dal recipe?
The defining ingredient in this dish is split urad dal (black lentils), which provide its earthy flavor, creamy texture, and a robust source of plant-based protein and fiber. The cumin seeds and spices, along with aromatics like onion and tomato, create the classic Indian dal profile.
Q. How should I control heat when cooking Urad Dal for best results?
Start by tempering the cumin seeds in oil over medium heat to release their aroma without burning, then sauté onions on medium-high for savory flavor. After adding the soaked dal and water, it's essential to reduce heat to low to gently simmer the lentils for 40 minutes. This prevents burning on the bottom and allows the dal to become creamy.
Q. How do I make sure the lentils are cooked perfectly, not under- or overcooked?
Stir the dal every 10 minutes while simmering to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Test the lentils' texture near the end; they're done when creamy and tender but not falling apart. If they’re undercooked, simmer a bit longer; if too thick, add a splash of water.
Q. What is the nutrition breakdown per serving of this Urad Dal?
Each 220g serving provides approximately 260 kcal, with 33g carbohydrates (50% of calories), 14g protein (22%), and 7g fat (28%). This makes it a balanced source of energy, plant protein, and dietary fiber, well-suited to vegetarian and DASH diets.
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