Experience the warmth and comfort of homemade Indian food with our delightful Yellow and Orange Daal, a dish that brings together the earthy flavors of yellow split peas and red lentils. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple and quick recipes can transform everyday ingredients into a wholesome, nutritious meal that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you are looking for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this daal is an ideal choice that can be prepared effortlessly and enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments.
Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, and this yellow and orange daal embodies these characteristics beautifully. The combination of yellow split peas and red lentils not only adds a lovely color to the dish but also ensures a balanced texture and a rich, creamy consistency. This daal is seasoned with a blend of traditional spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which impart a depth of flavor that is both complex and comforting.
One of the best aspects of this homemade daal is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, you can create a dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. The recipe involves simmering the lentils until they are tender, and then enhancing them with a tadka, or tempering, made from sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes. This process not only infuses the daal with a burst of flavor but also adds a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen with the essence of Indian home cooking.
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in many ways. Pair it with steamed rice or Indian bread like chapati or naan for a complete meal. For an extra touch of traditional Indian flavor, serve it with a side of tangy pickles, crispy papad (Indian lentil crackers), and a refreshing salad. The daal also pairs exceptionally well with pan-fried potatoes, which add a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor to the meal.
The nutritional benefits of this daal make it an excellent addition to your regular meal rotation. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only delicious but also healthful.
Incorporate this Yellow and Orange Daal into your weekly meal plan for a taste of homemade Indian food that is simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors with every bite, and bring a touch of Indian culinary tradition to your dining table, whether it’s for lunch or dinner.
✅ Quick Tips: For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a handful of chopped cilantro just before serving. This will enhance the taste and add a refreshing touch to your Yellow and Orange Daal.
Description
This quick and easy yellow and orange/red daal combines the earthy flavors of yellow split peas and red lentils with a blend of aromatic spices for a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect with rice or Indian bread, this daal is a wholesome addition to your dining table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Rinse the Daal:
Rinse the yellow split peas (toor dal) and red lentils (masoor dal) thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
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Cook the Daal:
- In a large pot, add the rinsed dals and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the turmeric powder and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dals are soft and fully cooked.
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Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):
- In a small pan, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them sizzle and pop for about 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies (if using). Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomato and cook until it softens and blends with the spices.
- Add ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
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Combine and Simmer:
Pour the prepared tadka into the cooked dals. Mix well and let it simmer together for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or Indian bread (chapati or naan)
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Serve hot ♨ and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 250mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 9g36%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 10g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Rinsing Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure a clear broth.
- Cooking Time: Adjust the simmering time based on the desired consistency; cook longer for a thicker daal.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies and the amount of garam masala to suit your spice preference.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic, ginger, and tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Stirring: Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
