Whole Masoor Dal (Brown Lentil Curry)

Whole Masoor Dal, also known as Brown Lentil Curry or Sabut Masoor Dal, is a hearty North Indian dish made with whole brown lentils simmered in an aromatic onion, tomato, ginger, and garlic gravy. This protein-rich vegan recipe is perfect for serving with steamed basmati rice or fresh roti.

Health Benefits of Whole Masoor Dal

Whole brown lentils are rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, iron, folate, and essential minerals. They help support heart health, improve digestion, and keep you feeling full longer.

1. 2 tablespoon olive oil
2. 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
3. 1 Green chili pepper
4. 1 medium onion diced
5. 3 garlic cloves, minced
6. 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
7. 1 cup Brown lentils (Whole Masoor Dal) rinsed
8. 2.5 cups of water
9. 1 tablespoon Lime juice
10. 1/4 teaspoon Ground Turmeric (Haldi powder)
11. 1 tablespoon Coriander powder (Dhaniya powder)
12. 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili powder (Mirchi powder) adjust to taste
13. 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala
14. 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste

1. Start the pressure cooker in sauté mode and let it heat. Add oil and cumin seeds. Saute for 30 seconds.
2. When the cumin seeds starts to splutter or change color, add green chili, onions, ginger and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until the onions become golden brown while stirring frequently.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook it till the tomatoes becomes soft.
4. Add turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the lentils, water and stir well. Close the instant pot lid with vent in sealing position.
6. Change the instant pot setting to manual or pressure cook mode at high pressure for 12 mins. After the instant pot beeps, let the pressure release naturally.
7. Open the pot. Add the lime juice and stir the dal.
8. Enjoy your lentil curry with Basmati Rice.

Final Product

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this hearty Whole Masoor Dal with any of the following:

• Steamed basmati rice
• Jeera (cumin) rice
• Fresh roti or chapati
• Butter naan or garlic naan
• Plain yogurt or cucumber raita
• Papad and Indian pickle
• Fresh cucumber, tomato, and onion salad