Yellow Tarka Dal

This is a comforting, authentic, East Indian dish that is packed with nutrients, nourishment, and flavor. It is a quick, easy, and economical dish perfect for a cold night. Parathas or rotis is a nice accompaniment. This dish is suitable for vegetarians. Serve over basmati rice garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Calories: 362 Calories

Ingredients

• water to cover
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon brown mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 pinch asafoetida powder (hing)
• ½ cup yellow dried split peas (chana dal)
• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place split peas in a container. Cover with water. Let soak, at least 2 hours. Drain.

Step 2

Combine split peas and red lentils in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Pour in enough water to cover by 2 inches. Season with turmeric, sea salt, and asafoetida. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, until dal is the consistency of porridge.

Step 3

Heat ghee and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin; cook until starting to pop, about 30 seconds. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring constantly, until tarka is very dark brown, 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4

Serve tarka over dal.