If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than Instant Pot Dal Fry! This delightful Indian recipe is not only packed with protein from red lentils but also bursting with aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine enjoying a warm bowl of creamy dal, perfectly seasoned and ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you're a busy professional or a home cook seeking a quick meal, this recipe will become your go-to for a satisfying dinner. Dive into our step-by-step guide and discover the secrets to mastering this classic dish that will impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any impurities and excess starch.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode. Once it’s hot, add 2 tablespoons of oil. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute.
- Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to the hot oil. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant and start to splutter.
- Next, add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent and slightly golden, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and slit green chilies to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down.
- Now, add the rinsed red lentils to the pot along with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, salt to taste, and 4 cups of water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir in 2 teaspoons of garam masala. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices to taste.
- To serve, garnish the dal fry with freshly chopped cilantro. You can serve it with steamed rice, roti, or naan for a complete meal.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse your red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This not only removes impurities but also helps achieve a smoother texture in the final dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the cumin seeds and onions. This step is crucial for building the base flavors of your dal fry, so let the onions turn golden for the best taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of green chilies or remove the seeds. Conversely, for an extra kick, add more chilies or a dash of red chili powder.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the cilantro garnish! It adds a fresh burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color to your dish. You can also squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top for added brightness.
- Pair It Right: Dal fry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, roti, or naan. Consider serving it with a side of yogurt or a simple salad for a complete meal.
- Make It Ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge, so feel free to make a larger batch. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
