Step 1 of 4
Parippu
Put the lentils in a pan with the water, chopped onion, garlic, green chilli, turmeric, half the curry leaves, pandan, cinnamon and fenugreek. Bring to a boil, skim, and simmer uncovered 15 minutes until the lentils are soft and starting to break down.
Watch: Do not salt until the lentils are soft. Salt early and they stay firm.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Parippu take?
40 min all in — 10 min prep, 30 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?
Very easy.
How spicy is it?
Mild.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free.
What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
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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?
Coconut oil → Neutral oil or ghee. Ghee makes it richer and not vegan. Pandan → Leave it out. It adds a grassy, almost vanilla aroma, but the dhal is fine without.
What should I watch for?
Do not salt until the lentils are soft. Salt early and they stay firm.
Any tips from this recipe?
Parippu thickens as it sits. Loosen leftovers with a splash of water and reheat gently. Ceylon cinnamon is softer and sweeter than cassia. If you only have cassia, use a smaller piece.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Parippu thickens as it sits. Loosen leftovers with a splash of water and reheat gently.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.