Whole Masoor Dal Recipe (Brown Lentils Curry)
+3 photos

Whole Masoor Dal Recipe (Brown Lentils Curry)

Whole Masoor Dal (Brown Lentils Curry) recipe is a healthy and easy dal made in an Instant Pot pressure cooker with whole masoor dal, onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices.

Ingredients

  • oil
    1 tbsp
  • cumin seeds

    jeera

    1 tsp
  • ginger and garlic

    minced

    1 tbsp
  • green chili

    chopped

    1
  • onion

    finely chopped

    1 medium
  • tomatoes

    finely chopped

    2 medium
  • whole masoor dal

    brown lentils

    1 c
  • water)

    (or vegetable broth

    2 ½ c
  • salt
    to taste
  • lime

    juiced

    ½
  • coriander leaves

    chopped

    2 tbsp
  • tumeric powder
    ½ tsp
  • red chili powder
    1 tsp
  • coriander powder
    1 tsp
  • garam masala
    1 tsp

Directions

Instant pot method

  1. 1

    Press SAUTE on Instant Pot. Heat oil, and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter. Add minced garlic, ginger, green chilies, and onions. Saute till the onions turn light brown.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Add tomatoes, spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook till the tomatoes turn soft and mushy, which takes 2-3 minutes.

  3. 3

    Then add rinsed lentils (dal), water, and give a stir. Adjust spices at this stage. Also, Deglaze the pot to ensure no food particle sticks to the bottom to avoid the Burn message.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Close the lid securely, and turn the vent to "SEALING". Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL (High Pressure) setting and set the cooking time to 15 minutes.When the instant pot beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure before removing the lid.

  5. 5

    Lastly, squeeze some lime juice, and add coriander leaves. Mix well.Instant pot pressure cooker Whole masoor dal (brown lentils) recipe is ready. Serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, roti, or serve it as a soup.

    Step 5

Stovetop pressure cooker

  1. 1

    Follow the steps from the instant pot instructions. Give 4-5 whistles on medium flame and let the pressure release naturally. All the other steps remain the same.

Stovetop pot

  1. 1

    If you don't have a pressure cooker and planning to make this dal on a stovetop pot then follow the same instructions till we add brown lentils and water.Then cook for around 30-35 minutes on medium heat or till lentils are soft and done. Adjust water accordingly.

Whole Masoor Dal Recipe (Brown Lentils Curry)
+3

Whole Masoor Dal Recipe (Brown Lentils Curry)

237 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a wholesome, flavorful meal that comes together with ease? This Whole Masoor Dal (Brown Lentils Curry) recipe delivers authentic Indian flavors right to your kitchen, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot pressure cooker. It’s a comforting main course perfect for any day of the week.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this brown lentil curry stand out is its simplicity combined with rich flavor. Crafted specifically for the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms humble whole masoor dal, onions, and tomatoes into a deeply satisfying dish. The pressure cooking method ensures perfectly tender lentils and a beautifully melded curry base with minimal fuss.

What to Expect

Get ready for a hearty, aromatic lentil curry that’s both nourishing and incredibly flavorful. You'll find the whole brown lentils tender, swimming in a savory sauce seasoned with cumin, ginger, garlic, turmeric, red chili, coriander, and garam masala. A bright finish of fresh lime juice and chopped coriander leaves elevates every spoonful. It’s a healthy and easy dish, requiring just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time, making it ideal for busy home cooks.

Customization & Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. You can easily adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chili and red chili powder. For a richer, more umami base, feel free to use vegetable broth instead of water. Don't skimp on the fresh lime juice and coriander leaves at the end—they are crucial for balancing the dish's warmth and adding a vibrant freshness.

Serving & Context

This fulfilling brown lentil curry is an excellent main course for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. Serve it hot alongside fluffy steamed rice or your favorite Indian flatbread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions