Best Easy Kokum Dal Recipe

Kokum Dal is a nourishing Indian lentil dish cooked with aromatic spices and a flavorful tempering. This high protein vegetarian staple is DASH-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for healthy family meals.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 230 kcal
#vegetarian #DASH #high protein #budget friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • split yellow pigeon peas (toor dal) 1 cup
  • water 3 cups
  • kokum pieces 6 pieces
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • vegetable oil 1 tbsp
  • mustard seeds 0.5 tsp
  • cumin seeds 0.5 tsp
  • dried red chili 1 piece
  • asafoetida 0.25 tsp
  • curry leaves 8 leaves
  • salt 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 34 g 59%
Protein 12 g 21%
Fat 4 g 20%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the split yellow pigeon peas (toor dal) thoroughly under running water, then soak for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, combine soaked dal, water, turmeric powder, and kokum pieces. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until dal is soft and fully cooked.

  3. 3

    Remove the cooked dal from heat; mash lightly with the back of a spoon for a creamy texture. Adjust water to reach your preferred consistency.

  4. 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, then immediately add cumin seeds, dried red chili, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to avoid burning.

  5. 5

    Pour the hot tempering over the cooked dal, add salt, and simmer together for 3–5 minutes on low heat so flavors meld. Stir well before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Kokum Dal recipe?
The core ingredient is split yellow pigeon peas (toor dal), which provide the dish's creamy base, protein content, and classic lentil texture. Kokum adds a unique tanginess that sets this dal apart from other varieties.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest difference in flavor?
The tempering of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chili, asafoetida, and curry leaves in hot oil is essential. This combination infuses the dal with aromatic and savory notes that define its traditional flavor.
Q. How do I prevent the dal from being undercooked or too thick?
Soaking the dal ahead and maintaining a gentle simmer ensures the lentils become soft without sticking or burning. If the dal thickens too much, simply add a little water and simmer briefly to adjust the texture.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving have?
Each 220g serving contains approximately 230 kcal, with 12g protein, making it high protein and suitable for balanced meals. Carbohydrates deliver 59% of calories, protein 21%, and fat 20%.
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