Simple Dal Tadka

Ingredients

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas), rinsed
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps

1. Pressure cook dal with water and turmeric for 2-3 whistles, or cook in a pot until soft and mushy (about 20-25 mins). Mash lightly.
2. For the tadka (tempering): Heat ghee in a small pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add asafoetida, chopped onion, and green chilies. Sauté until onion is golden.
3. Add chopped tomato and cook until soft. Pour this tadka over the cooked dal.
4. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or roti.