Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Simple and Authentic Red Lentil Dal

Recipe by Pankaj Sharma

A traditional Indian dal made with red lentils, scented with warm spices and topped with a ghee and cumin tadka. Quick, economical and perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal.

EasyIndianServes 3

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
14m
Prep
31m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
55m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.68
Total cost
$0.89
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Sauté the onion until translucent without burning it
  • Do not let the powdered spices burn while mixing
  • Uncovered cooking: monitor water level to prevent the dal from sticking
  • Prepare the tadka just before serving to retain the crunch of the garlic

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter: handle with care.
  • Do not let the spices burn, they can become bitter and emit smoke.
  • Use oven mitts to remove the small pan from the heat.

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Indian Okra (Spicy Gumbo)

Indian Okra (Spicy Gumbo)

A simple and quick preparation of okra (gumbo) with traditional Indian spices: coriander, turmeric, chili and mustard seeds, sautéed with onion and brightened with a splash of lemon. Ideal served with rice, chapati or lentils.

47 min
Serves 3
$2
6 views
IndianEasy
Millet Flour Pav (Gluten‑Free Indian Bread Rolls)

Millet Flour Pav (Gluten‑Free Indian Bread Rolls)

A soft, airy, gluten‑free version of classic Indian pav made with a blend of millet flours, arrowroot, and a touch of psyllium husk for binding. The rolls are proofed, baked with a light oil glaze for a golden crust, and can be garnished with sesame and flax seeds. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side for curries.

3 hrs 30 min
Serves 6
$2
9 views
IndianMedium
Veg Dum Biryani (Vegetarian Layered Biryani)

Veg Dum Biryani (Vegetarian Layered Biryani)

A classic Indian Veg Dum Biryani made with fluffy basmati rice, marinated vegetables, homemade biryani masala, and crispy birista (fried onions). This recipe follows traditional dum (steam) cooking for authentic flavor and texture.

2 hrs 40 min
Serves 6
$24
9 views
IndianIntermediate
Desi Ghee Paratha (Traditional Chandni Chowk Style) (parota)

Desi Ghee Paratha (Traditional Chandni Chowk Style) (parota)

A classic Indian whole‑wheat paratha cooked in pure desi ghee, inspired by the famous Parathe Wali Gali of Chandni Chowk where 80‑90 varieties of parathas are made. This recipe uses authentic pure ghee for a flaky, buttery texture and is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner. Also known as parota.

65 min
Serves 4
$4
19 views
IndianEasy
Lachha Paratha (parota)

Lachha Paratha (parota)

A flaky, layered Indian flatbread made by rolling, cutting, oil‑brushing and pan‑frying a soft dough. This budget‑friendly recipe costs under $0.15 per serving and is perfect for breakfast or a snack. Also known as parota.

55 min
Serves 2
$0
11 views
IndianEasy
Garlic Chicken

Garlic Chicken

A flavorful, low‑carb Indian‑style garlic chicken made with boneless leg pieces, marinated in lemon and spices, then pan‑fried and finished with a buttery garlic‑onion masala and fresh capsicum. Perfect for a high‑protein, weight‑loss friendly dinner.

45 min
Serves 3
$11
8 views
IndianMedium