Spice Up Your Weeknights: A Flavorful Tadka Dal Recipe

When it comes to comforting and nutritious Indian food, Tadka Dal reigns supreme. This simple lentil dish, elevated by a flavorful tempering (Tadka) of aromatic spices, is a staple in homes across India. The beauty of Tadka Dal lies in its ease of preparation and the incredible burst of flavor that the tempered spices impart.

At Bbluepepper, we believe that the quality of whole spices used in the Tadka is crucial for achieving that authentic taste. The tempering process releases the essential oils of the spices, infusing the entire dish with their unique aromas.

Recipe: Flavorful Tadka Dal

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Toor Dal (split pigeon peas) or Masoor Dal (red lentils)
• 3-4 cups water
• ½ tsp Bbluepepper Turmeric Powder
• Salt to tasteFor the Tadka (Tempering):
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp Bbluepepper Mustard Seeds
• 1 tsp Bbluepepper Cumin Seeds
• 2-3 dry red chilies, broken
• 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• ½ tsp Bbluepepper Red Chilli Powder
• A pinch of Bbluepepper Asafoetida (Hing) (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash the dal thoroughly and soak it for 30 minutes.
2. In a pressure cooker or a pot, add the soaked dal, water, Bbluepepper Turmeric Powder, and salt. Cook until the dal is soft and mushy (about 4-5 whistles in a pressure cooker or 20-25 minutes in a pot). Mash the dal lightly.
3. Prepare the Tadka: Heat ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
4. Once the ghee is hot, add Bbluepepper Mustard Seeds. Let them splutter.
5. Add Bbluepepper Cumin Seeds and dry red chilies. Let the cumin seeds turn light brown.
6. Add chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and add Bbluepepper Red Chilli Powder and Bbluepepper Asafoetida (Hing) (if using). Stir quickly. Be careful not to burn the chilli powder.
8. Pour the hot tadka immediately over the cooked dal. Cover the pot for a few minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or roti.

The simple yet aromatic Tadka, made with the quality whole and ground spices from Bbluepepper, transforms this humble lentil dish into a flavorful and satisfying meal.