Delicious Dhaba-Style Arhar Dal Recipe
How to Prepare Tadka Arhar Dal
Lentils are a staple in many homes, and *tadka dal* is a beloved dish. A classic meal of *dal*, *roti*, and a vegetable is always satisfying, even after indulging in other dishes like *puri-sabzi*. Among various lentils, *arhar dal* (split pigeon pea) stands out for its delightful flavor, especially when tempered. Making *dhaba*-style *dal* at home is simple and rewarding. Let’s explore this new recipe to create a delicious *arhar dal*.
To start, gather four to five cloves of garlic, peeling and finely chopping them. Chop a large onion and two green chilies, along with one tomato. Rinse the *arhar dal* in a bowl under clean water, rubbing the grains together, and repeat this four to five times. Do not soak the *dal*; simply drain it and set it aside.
Next, heat a pressure cooker on low. Add two tablespoons of *ghee* (or refined oil if preferred), along with one black cardamom and three to four black peppercorns. Once aromatic, add the chopped onion and tomato, seasoning with salt, half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, half a teaspoon of red chili powder, half a teaspoon of coriander powder, and the *arhar dal*. Mix thoroughly.
After mixing, pour in three to four cups of water. For a thinner dal, use four to five cups; for a thicker consistency, three cups will suffice. Pressure cook for two whistles until the *dal* is perfectly cooked, with each grain distinct.
Now, let’s prepare the *tadka*. In a large ladle, heat two tablespoons of ghee. Once hot, add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle. Then, introduce two dried red chilies. When the chilies start to change color, add the finely chopped garlic. After lightly sautéing the garlic, mix in the green chilies and a pinch of asafoetida (hing), followed by some fresh coriander leaves. Pour this tempering over the cooked dal and cover the pressure cooker immediately.
Covering the cooker after adding the tempering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, stir in some chopped fresh coriander leaves. Your *tadka arhar dal* is now ready to be served with hot rice. Enhance the dish with a drizzle of ghee, and pair it with onion-cucumber salad and spicy pickle. The aroma and taste of this dal will surely elevate your meal, making it a perfect match for plain steamed rice.
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