Spiced Tuvar Dal (Lentil Curry)

Leander Fernandes
3 days ago
2 min read

A comforting and flavourful tuvar dal prepared with a freshly roasted onion, coconut, and spice masala. This wholesome lentil curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapatis, or bhakris, making it a satisfying everyday meal.

Ingredients

For the Dal

250–300 g tuvar dal (split pigeon peas)

20 g garlic, sliced

15 g ginger, finely chopped

2–3 green chillies, finely chopped (or to taste)

A few curry leaves

½ cup finely chopped coriander leaves

Salt, to taste

Oil, as required

½ tsp mustard seeds

For the Ground Masala

1 tbsp chilli powder

1 tbsp coriander powder

1 tsp cumin powder

½ tsp pepper powder

½ tsp asafoetida (hing) powder

¼ tsp turmeric powder

1 onion, sliced

¼ cup desiccated coconut or freshly grated coconut

1 small ball of tamarind, soaked in ½ cup hot water

Method

Prepare the Ground Masala

Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the sliced onion until translucent.

Add the coconut and continue sautéing until it turns lightly golden.

Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.

Transfer it to a mixer jar. Add the chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, pepper powder, asafoetida, turmeric powder, and the soaked tamarind along with the soaking water.

Grind to a smooth, thick paste, adding a little more water if required.

Cook the Dal

Rinse the tuvar dal thoroughly and soak it for 1 hour.

Cook the dal with just enough water until it comes to a boil.

Remove the white foam that rises to the surface.

Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the dal is soft and fully cooked.

Prepare the Dal Curry

Heat oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.

Add the sliced garlic, chopped ginger, and green chillies. Sauté until aromatic.

Stir in the prepared ground masala paste. Add a little water if needed and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally.

Add the curry leaves and mix well.

Add the cooked dal and salt to taste. Stir thoroughly and adjust the consistency with water as desired.