Here is my collection of Indian lentil recipes made in an
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Indian Lentil Recipes
Lentils or dal is a staple in an Indian household and is made almost every day. The way dal is made varies from state to state in India. Not just that, there are different versions of dal in different regions of a state.
Recipe FAQs
No. Lentils do not need to be soaked before pressure cooking. However, wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt and pick any stones that they may have.
It depends on the type of lentil. For example, yellow lentils (moong dal) needs 5 minutes, whereas pigeon pea lentil (toor dal) needs 8 minutes. Check individual recipes for cooking times.
As a general guide, you can use the lentil-to-water ratio of 1:3. Check individual recipes for more details.
Vegan Dal Recipes
Dal (or dhal) is a staple in every Indian household and is made almost every single day. Plain steamed rice served with dal and vegetables is so comforting and delicious.
From the popular dal fry to the lesser-known cabbage dal, find some unique recipes here. These Indian lentil recipes are a great way of sneaking in vegetables and greens for picky eaters.
Instant Pot Dal fry
Instant Pot Chana dal
Cabbage Dal
Ridge Gourd Dal
Bottle Gourd Dal / Bengali Lau Dal
Methi Dal (Fenugreek Leaves Dal)
Whole Masoor Dal (Sabut Masoor Dal)
Green moong dal
Bottle Gourd Curry / Lauki Chana Dal Sabzi
Soup Recipes
These lentil soup recipes are healthy, delicious, and easy to make. These protein-rich soups are a great way to stay warm on cold nights and come together quickly. Simple ingredients and spices are used in these soups, and they are perfect for the entire family.
Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup
Millet Soup
Khichdi Recipes
Khichdi or khichri is an Indian-style risotto made using lentils and grains (mostly rice). This one-pot meal is made with vegetables and spices. It is very comforting and filling and can be served for lunch, dinner, and breakfast. The rice in the khichdi is often replaced with other grains like millet.
Khichdi is also popularly called the National dish of India, and every state has its own variation. Here are some recipes of khichdi made with petite yellow lentils along with either rice, millet, or cracked wheat.
Kitchari / Khichdi
Ven Pongal (Khara Pongal)
Dalia Khichdi
Millet Khichdi
Desserts with Dal
Here are some lentil-based desserts that are unique and very easy to make. Using your Instant Pot to create these authentic-tasting desserts saves a lot of time and energy. Each recipe is tried and tested and includes all the tips you need to make them. They are perfect for festivals, celebrations, and gatherings.
Moong Dal Halwa
Moong Dal Payasam
Chana Dal Payasam
Sweet Pongal
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Recipe card
Instant Pot Chana Dal
Equipment
Ingredients
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
- 2 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala (use store-bought or homemade garam masala)
Extra tempering (optional):
- 1 teaspoon oil
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1-2 dried red chili
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- Wash the chana dal thoroughly. Soak it in clean water for 20 minutes. Drain all the water from it and rinse the soaked dal in fresh water.
- Set the Instant Pot in saute mode and add oil. Once it heats, add the cumin seeds and hing.
- Once the cumin seeds begin to splutter, add onion, ginger, garlic, and green chili. Saute for 3-4 minutes, until the onions being to soften.
- Add the tomato, coriander powder, chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and sugar. Saute for 2 minutes.
- Add the soaked dal and 3 cups of water. Give it a good stir.
- Cancel saute mode and set the Instant Pot on pressure cook for 12 minutes. Do 10 minutes of NPR, then do a quick release remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and add garam masala, cilantro, and lemon/lime juice. Mix well.
- The dal can be served at this stage or you can make an extra tempering before serving.
- To make the second tempering, heat one teaspoon of oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chili, curry leaves, and chili powder. Mix well and saute for a few seconds.
- Pour on the dal and serve hot.
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