One of our favorite meatless Indian dishes, this Masoor Dal is so incredibly flavor-packed, we’re confident you’ll love it as much as we do! These Indian spiced lentils can be enjoyed any time of the year. This Instant Pot Masoor Dal recipe comes together in minutes in the Instant Pot and before you know it you’ll be sitting down to a wonderfully satisfying and delicious meal!
What is Masoor Dal?
Masoor Dal is a very traditional Indian dish that features red lentils. Lentils are a staple throughout India and particularly in those regions that are predominantly vegetarian. Lentils are a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals and as another bonus, they don’t require pre-soaking and cook very quickly. This classic Indian red lentil dish is quick to prepare, especially in the Instant Pot. You briefly cook the whole spices in oil to bring out their flavors, cook the onions, garlic and ginger, then add the remaining ingredients and let the Instant Pot do its thing. Dinner is ready in no time!
Among the fragrant spices and ingredients in this dish is one you may not have used or heard of before unless you cook a lot of authentic Indian: Asafoetida. It contributes a great deal of flavor to the dish but also has the added benefit of aiding in digestion and curbing…ahem…flatulence from the lentils. A small bottle of asafoetida will last a very long time. Masoor dal is naturally gluten free and for a vegetarian/vegan version use vegetable broth. Serve this Masoor Dal on its own, with some naan (it’s great for dipping and scooping up the last of the lentils!), or for a low carb alternative serve it with a veggie or leafy green salad. High in fiber and protein and positively packed with flavor, I’m confident you’re going to love this Masoor Dal as much as we do!
Instant Pot Masoor Dal Recipe
Let’s get started! Set the Instant Pot to sauté. Heat the oil in the Instant Pot and add the mustard and cumin seeds. Cook until the mustard seeds begin to pop, about 15-20 seconds. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent about 5-7 minutes.
Add the garlic, ginger and chilies (if using) and cook for another minute. Add the turmeric, chili powder, asafoetida, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon and cloves and cook for a minute.
Add the lentils, tomatoes, salt, black cardamom, and broth. Stir to combine.
Cancel the “sauté” setting and set to pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes followed by a quick release. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Add salt to taste.
Serve immediately with some fresh naan. For dessert nothing beats a refreshing Mango Lassi or some Fruit Chaat! Note: Masoor dal thickens over time and if serving as leftovers you can thin it out with a little more broth if you like. Enjoy!
For more delicious Indian dishes be sure to try our:
Chicken Tikka Masala Butter Chicken Tandoori Chicken Egg Curry Saag Gosht Fruit Chaat Chicken Biryani Chicken Xacuti Eggplant Curry Balti Chicken Cucumber Raita Mango Lassi Dosas (South Indian crepes) Indian Broccoli with Paneer
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