Comforting Instant Pot Black Lentil Dal (Sabut Urad Dal) Recipe
If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s both hearty and flavorful, my Instant Pot Black Lentil Dal is the perfect dish.
Packed with protein and fiber from black lentils, this dal is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices that will fill your kitchen with delicious scents. This recipe is simple and satisfying. Plus, it’s made in the Instant Pot, so you can enjoy a warm, nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What is Black Lentil Dal?
Black lentil dal, also known as urad dal or black gram, is a traditional Indian dish made from whole black lentils. The lentils are cooked until tender and buttery, then simmered with spices like cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala. The result is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect to pair with naan, rice, or roti.
Black lentils are naturally buttery and that sets them apart from other legumes, making this dal a must-try for lentil lovers and newcomers alike.
Why I Love Making Black Lentil Dal
This recipe is a personal favorite because it’s naturally buttery, delicious, and easy to prepare. Cooking it in the Instant Pot makes the process so much faster without compromising on flavor.
What You Need to Cook
To make this flavorful dal, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
– Lentils: Whole or split black lentils (whole or slit urad dal with skin ) form the base of this dish. They are high in protein and fiber, making this dal both filling and nutritious.
– Fresh Ingredients: Onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, and green chili bring freshness and depth to the flavor.
– Whole Spices: Cumin seeds and bay leaf for that essential earthy, aromatic foundation.
– Ground Spices: Coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) add layers of spice and warmth.
– Other Essentials: Oil, water, and salt.
– For Garnish: Chopped fresh coriander, fried onions, and a touch of vegan butter for a finishing touch. Use anything you like for garnish. I also often add toppings like toasted nuts, freshly chopped red onions, and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
How I Cook My Black Lentil Dal
I start by soaking the black lentils overnight. I suggest soaking at least for 4 hours. After draining the lentils, I set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat some oil. Then, I add cumin seeds and wait for them to crackle, releasing their aroma, followed by a bay leaf for extra flavor.
Next, I sauté the onions until golden brown and add the tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, and green chili for a spicy kick. After that, I stir in my ground spices, including coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Once the mixture cooks a bit, I know it’s time to add the lentils, water, and salt.
I close the Instant Pot lid, set it to Pressure Cook for 30 to 40 minutes, and let the magic happen. After the pressure naturally releases, I open the lid and check the consistency. If the dal is too thin, I switch back to Sauté mode and simmer until it thickens perfectly. Garnished with fresh coriander and fried onions, this dal is ready to be served with your favorite naan, roti, or rice.
My Other Vegan Dal and Legumes Recipes You will Lobe
Instant Pot Palak Dal( Dal with Spinach)
Instant Pot Vegan Chana Dal Recipe
Black Lentil Dal
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Set of Measuring Spoons
- One Set of measuring cups
- Knives, cutting boards, etc
Ingredients
Lentils:
- 1 cup whole or split black lentils with skin urad dal or black gram
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 cup onions chopped
- 1 cup tomatoes chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 green chili finely chopped (optional)
Whole spices
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 Bay leaf
Ground Spices:
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder or cayenne pepper or paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon fennel powder
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi
Other:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 cups water or as required
- Salt to taste
For garnish
- ¼ cup chopped coriander
- Fried onions
- Vegan butter
Instructions
Soaking Lentils:
- Rinse the lentils 2 to 3 times. Soak them in water 3 to 5 hours or overnight
- Drain the lentils after soaking. Set aside
Instant Pot Dal Cooking Instructions
- Start by heating oil in the Instant Pot on Sauté mode at low heat.
- Once heated, add cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle and crackle.
- Add bay leaf, chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Mix in chopped tomatoes, ginger garlic paste, and green chilies. Stir until well combined.
- Add coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, kasoori methi, , and garam masala. Stir the spices into the mixture thoroughly.
- Continue sautéing until the oil starts separating from the masala.
- Add the soaked lentils, water, and salt. Stir to combine everything.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and choose Pressure Cook or Manual mode.
- Set the timer to 40 minutes on High Pressure.
- Once the cooking is done, let the pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Open the lid and check the consistency. If the dal is too thin, switch back to Sauté mode and simmer until it thickens.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Video
Notes
Reasons to Love This Dal
– Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from black lentils.
– Easy to Make: The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time and effort.
– Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or add more veggies for variety.
– Vegan-Friendly: Made with plant-based ingredients, this dish is perfect for vegans.
– Delicious Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it great for meal prep.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
– Soak the lentils: Soaking helps the lentils cook faster and more evenly. If using older lentils, soak them overnight.
– Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will give your dal the best flavor. Don’t skip kasuri methi; it adds a unique taste!
– Simmer if too thin: If your dal is too watery after pressure cooking, switch to Sauté mode and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
– Fried onions for garnish: Crispy fried onions on top add an irresistible texture and flavor.
Why You Should Try This Black Lentil Dal Recipe
This Black Lentil Dal is not only bursting with flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, and the spices used in this dish offer a range of health benefits.
Turmeric, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while cumin aids digestion. Plus, since the recipe is vegan, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish without compromising on taste or texture.
FAQs
Where can I find kasuri methi?
Kasuri methi is available in most Indian grocery stores or can be purchased online.
Do I have to soak the lentils?
Soaking helps the lentils cook evenly and faster, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and increase the cooking time.
Can I make this dal without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop using a regular pressure cooker or in a slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this dal?
The heat level can be adjusted by adding more or less green chili and red chili powder to suit your taste.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Dal freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What can I serve with this dal?
Serve it with naan, roti, or rice for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a side of pickles or yogurt.
