Indian · serves 2

Dal Tadka + Rice

The default that never disappoints. Ready before you get hungry enough to order in.

30 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup toor dal
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chilli powder
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • Rice for 2

Method

  1. Pressure cook dal with turmeric, salt and 3 cups water — 4 whistles. Put rice on at the same time.
  2. Heat ghee, crackle cumin, add garlic until golden.
  3. Add onion, cook till soft, then tomatoes and chilli powder. Cook till the oil separates.
  4. Pour the tadka into the dal, simmer 5 minutes, mash a little with the ladle.
  5. Finish with a spoon of raw ghee and coriander.

Questions people ask about Dal Tadka + Rice

How long does Dal Tadka + Rice take?

About 30 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

What can I use instead of rice in Dal Tadka + Rice?

Use any long-grain rice. Basmati needs less water than most, so check the packet before following the ratio here.

Can I make Dal Tadka + Rice ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Dal Tadka + Rice vegetarian?

Yes, it is vegetarian. It is not vegan as written because it contains dairy; swap the dairy for a plant alternative and the rest of the method is unchanged.

Do I need a pressure cooker for Dal Tadka + Rice?

A cooker is faster but not essential. In an open pot, expect roughly three times the cooking time and keep an eye on the water level, topping up with hot water rather than cold.

What do you serve with Dal Tadka + Rice?

Roti or plain rice, with something sharp on the side: curd, pickle or sliced onion. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

Read more on the technique

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