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Dal tadka
Simmer rinsed lentils with turmeric and water until soft, 25–30 minutes. Salt. Mash a little for body.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Dal tadka take?
45 min all in — 10 min prep, 35 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 4 bowls. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
Mild.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Vegetarian.
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What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Saucepan, Frying pan.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1 tsp.
What can I use instead?
Ghee → Oil. Vegan. Less of the dairy-sweet finish.
Any tips from this recipe?
A pinch of asafoetida in the tadka is the North Indian smell if you have it. Toor dal is the usual restaurant pot. Masoor is faster.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.