Easy Instant Pot Dal with Preeti’s Dal Masala

Easy Instant Pot Dal with Preeti’s Dal Masala

Dal is one of those meals that always feels grounding. It is simple, warm, and deeply comforting. In my kitchen, I like making dal that is easy for everyday cooking but still full of flavor. I created a dal masala blend that is balanced, aromatic, and made to simplify cooking without losing taste. And of course I named it Preeti’s Dal Masala! 

My Dal Masal blend brings everything together in one spoon, so the cooking feels effortless while still tasting rich and homemade.

This Instant Pot dal is one of my regular meals. It gives a beautiful texture, a slightly nutty flavor, and a satisfying, hearty base that works perfectly for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients I Use for My Everyday Dal

This recipe uses simple, familiar pantry ingredients.

Chana dal forms the base. Onions and tomatoes build flavor. Ginger garlic paste adds warmth. Oil helps everything cook together. Salt brings balance.

And then I add Preeti’s Dal Masala, which ties everything together.

How I Make It in the Instant Pot

I always like to soak dal for at least 4 hours. I start with sauté mode in the Instant Pot. I heat the oil and cook the onions until they turn light golden. This builds the base flavor.

Then I add tomatoes. I cook until everything softens and becomes fragrant. Next, I add salt and Preeti’s Dal Masala. This is when the aroma becomes rich and comforting.

After that, I add the rinsed chana dal and water. I mix everything well, close the lid, and cook on high pressure.

Once it is done, I let the pressure release naturally. This helps the dal settle and finish cooking properly.

Finally, I stir and adjust the texture. I mash a few lentils if I want it thicker, or add a little water if I prefer it lighter.

How I Serve It

I like serving this dal hot with simple toppings. Fresh coriander adds freshness. Fried onions add sweetness and crunch. Try adding a spoonful of chilled coconut milk for extra creaminess!

It goes beautifully with rice, roti, or even on its own as a light meal.

Try Preeti’s Dal Masala in Chickpeas and Potato Curry

Why This Recipe Works for Me

This dal has become one of my everyday favorites because it is simple and reliable. I can make it without stress, even on busy days, and it still feels nourishing and satisfying.

Preeti’s Dal Masala keeps it consistent every time. A little amount is enough to bring all the flavors together. For me, this is what home cooking is about. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and food that feels good to eat. This dal reminds me that comfort does not need complexity.

Ways I Use Preeti’s Dal Masala Beyond Dal

Preeti’s Dal Masala is not just for making dal. I use it in many different ways in my kitchen. A small spoon can add warmth and depth to vegetable curries, simple stir-fries, and even roasted vegetables.

I also like adding it to soups to give them a gentle Indian-style flavor, especially lentil soups, tomato soups, or mixed vegetable soups. It works beautifully in one-pot meals like khichdi, stews, or even grain bowls with rice, quinoa, or millets.

Sometimes I even sprinkle a little into sautéed greens or use it while cooking chickpeas and beans for extra flavor. It is a simple blend, but it brings comfort and richness to many everyday dishes, not just dal.

Channa Dal with Preeti's Dal Masala

Yogchakra

This is a simple, comforting Instant Pot chana dal made with onions, tomatoes, and Preeti’s Dal Masala. The dal is cooked until soft and creamy, then adjusted to the desired texture. Finish it with with your choice of fresh coriander, fried onions, or coconut milk. It is an easy everyday recipe that brings rich flavor in a quick, effortless way using a single spice blend instead of multiple spices.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, Snack, Soup

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Set of Measuring Spoons
• One Set of measuring cups
• Cutting Boards and Knives
• Instant Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup chana dal
• 1 cup onion thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes or 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 2 LEVEL tbsp Preeti's Dal Masala
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1.5 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• 2 cups water may need adjustment
• Chopped Cilantro for garnish optional
• Fried onions for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Wash, rinse, and soak chana dal for at least 2 hours. Set aside.
• Turn on the Instant Pot and select Sauté mode until it shows HOT.
• Add oil and let it heat.
• Add onions and sauté until they turn translucent or light golden.
• Add tomatoes and cook until they soften and become slightly pulpy.
• Add salt and Preeti’s Dal Masala. Mix well
• Rinse the soaked chana dal and add it to the pot.
• Add water and stir everything together.
• Cancel sauté mode.
• Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes
• Let the pressure release naturally, then open the lid carefully.
• Stir the dal. If you like a thicker texture, mash a few lentils with the back of a spoon.
• Add a little extra water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
• Serve hot and top with chopped coriander, fried onions, or a swirl of coconut milk.

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