Erica Kangas

Masoor Dal

main
Aug 1, 2025
Prep time: 15 min.
Cook time: 45 min.
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients


Equipment


Prep


Instructions

  1. Add lentils and 3 1/4 cups water to the medium pot.

  2. Bring to a boil over medium high heat.

  3. Reduce heat to low-medium so it still simmers. Remove any white foam from surface.

  4. Stir occasionally until the lentils are soft, ~30 minutes. Add water if the lentils get too thick.

  5. Turn off the heat.

  6. Heat oil over medium-high heat in the large pot.

  7. Add onions and cook until slightly golden, ~7 minutes.

  8. Stir in garlic and ginger, ~30 seconds.

  9. Add tomatoes, cumin, coriander, cayenne, turmeric, and salt.

  10. Cook until soft and oil starts to separate, ~3 minutes.

  11. Stir in lentils.

  12. Add water to desired consistency, ~1 cup.

  13. Bring to a simmer, ~5 minutes.

  14. Add more salt to taste.

  15. Stir in butter, lemon juice, and garam masala.

  16. Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw then reheat on the stove top, adding water as needed.

Masoor Dal | Erica’s Recipes