Dal Mash, also known as Urad Dal, is a traditional Indian dish bursting with flavors and nutrients. Originating from the heart of Indian cuisine, this recipe has been cherished for generations.
Despite its rich history, making Dal Mash is surprisingly easy, even for beginners in the kitchen.
In terms of difficulty, Dal Mash falls into the beginner-friendly category. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a delicious pot of this comforting lentil dish.
Expert Tip: Experiment with different variations of Dal Mash by adding vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or potatoes.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a rich and smooth texture to the Dal Mash, enhancing its overall flavor profile. It also helps in sautéing the onions and garlic, releasing their aromatic essence into the dish.
Lentils Split Black Gram (Urad Dal): Dal Mash, black gram lentils provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the dish. Packed with protein and fiber, they make Dal Mash not only delicious but also nutritious.
Onions: Onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, complementing the earthy flavor of the lentils. They also provide a savory base for the spices and aromatics.
Garlic Paste: Garlic adds a pungent and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, enhancing its overall complexity. It also offers numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing cholesterol levels.
Ginger: Ginger adds a subtle warmth and zing to the Dal Mash, balancing out the flavors of the other ingredients. It also aids in digestion and adds a refreshing aroma to the dish.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide acidity and tanginess to the Dal Mash, brightening up its flavor profile. They also contribute natural sweetness and juiciness to the dish.
Chilli Powder: Chilli powder adds heat and spice to the Dal Mash, giving it a characteristic kick. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spice level.
Turmeric Powder (Haldi): Turmeric powder adds a vibrant yellow color to the Dal Mash and imparts a subtle earthy flavor. It also offers numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps balance the dish’s overall taste. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Cumin Powder: Cumin powder adds a warm and slightly nutty flavor to the Dal Mash, enhancing its aromatic profile. It also aids in digestion and complements the other spices used in the dish.
Green Chillies: Green chillies add additional heat and spice to the Dal Mash, intensifying its flavor profile. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spice level.
Coriander (Dhaniya): Fresh coriander adds a burst of freshness and color to the Dal Mash, elevating its visual appeal. It also adds a hint of citrusy flavor and aroma to the dish, completing its aromatic profile.
Expert Tip: For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked lentils before adding them back to the pot.
Expert Tip: To enhance the flavor of Dal Mash, consider tempering it with spices such as mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies in hot oil before adding the other ingredients.
Dal Mash typically takes about 30-40 minutes to cook, including preparation time for soaking the lentils. However, cooking times may vary depending on factors such as the type of lentils used and desired consistency.
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices in Dal Mash according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the green chilies altogether. Conversely, if you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add extra green chilies.
Soaking the lentils before cooking is recommended as it helps reduce cooking time and improves their digestibility. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip the soaking step and cook the lentils directly, although it may take longer for them to become tender.
Yes, Dal Mash can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through before serving. You may need to add a splash of water to adjust the consistency if it thickens upon refrigeration.
Yes, Dal Mash is completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It’s a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for those following a plant-based diet.
To prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pan, make sure to stir them occasionally during cooking and add a little more water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency. Using a non-stick pan or cooking pot can also help prevent sticking.
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