Introduction
This Rice With Lentils, Masoor Dal Pulao is a wholesome one-pot meal made with fragrant basmati rice and nutritious brown lentils. The lentils add protein and heartiness, while Preeti’s Dal Masala brings a perfectly balanced blend of authentic Indian spices to create a flavorful and aromatic pulao. It is an easy, comforting meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
How I Cook My Masoor Dal Pulao
I start by rinsing the basmati rice and brown masoor dal well, then soak them for 2–4 hours. Soaking helps the lentils and rice cook evenly and gives the pulao a better texture.
I heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot and sauté the sliced onions until they turn golden brown. This creates a rich and flavorful base for the pulao. Next, I add ginger-garlic paste and cook for about a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
I add the soaked and drained masoor dal and sauté it for 5–6 minutes. Then I add Preeti’s Dal Masala and salt, mixing well so the lentils are coated with the aromatic spice blend.
Next, I add the soaked rice and gently sauté for a few minutes until each grain is coated with the masala. I add the chopped tomatoes and water, mix gently, and bring everything to a boil.
Once it starts boiling, I cover the pot and cook on medium-low heat until the rice and lentils are fully cooked and tender, about 10–15 minutes. I check occasionally to make sure it is cooking evenly.
Once the pulao is ready, I add fresh lemon juice and toasted cashews, then gently mix everything together. Finally, I garnish with fresh coriander and serve this flavorful Rice With Lentils hot with yogurt, raita, pickles, fresh salad, or coconut yogurt for a vegan option.
Rice With Lentils ( Masoor Dal Pulao)
Recipe Summary
This Rice with Lentils recipe is a flavorful one-pot Indian meal made with wholesome brown lentils, fragrant basmati rice, toasted cashews, and Preeti's Dal Masala. The lentils add protein and heartiness, while the aromatic spice blend brings out rich Indian flavors in every bite. This comforting rice with lentils dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with yogurt, raita, pickles, or a fresh salad.Equipment
- Set of Measuring Spoons
- One Set of measuring cups
- Cutting Boards and Knives
- Wide Pan
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice soaked for 2–4 hours
- 1 cup whole brown masoor dal brown lentils soaked for 2–4 hours
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup onions thinly sliced
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes chopped
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 –3 green chilies chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 4 level tablespoons Preeti's Dal Masala
- 1/3 cup toasted cashews optional
- salt to taste
- 2 TBSP Lemon Juice
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice and brown lentils well. Soak them for 2–4 hours, then drain. Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot
- Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Add the soaked masoor dal and sauté for 3-4 minutes
- Add Preeti's Dal Masala and salt. Mix well to coat the lentils with the spices.
- Add the soaked rice and gently sauté for 3–5 minutes until the rice grains are coated with the masala.
- Add chopped tomatoes and water, and mix gently.
- Bring to a boil. Cover and cook on medium-low until the rice and lentils are fully cooked and tender. Should take 10 - 15 minutes
- Remove the lid and fluff the rice mixture
- Add fresh lemon juice and toasted cashews and gently mix. Top with fresh chopped coriander and serve hot.
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes rice with lentils a complete meal?
Rice with lentils combines grains and legumes to provide a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and fiber. It is a wholesome meal that keeps you full and energized.
2. Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different lentils, but brown masoor dal works especially well because it holds its shape and adds a hearty texture.
3. Do I need to soak the rice and lentils?
Soaking helps the lentils and rice cook more evenly and improves the final texture. It also helps reduce the cooking time.
4. Can I make this rice with lentils vegan?
Yes. Use oil instead of ghee, and serve it with coconut yogurt or a fresh salad for a completely vegan meal.
5. What gives this dish its authentic Indian flavor?
The combination of slow-cooked onions, tomatoes, and Preeti’s Dal Masala creates a flavorful base with warm and aromatic Indian spices.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of water to bring back the texture.
7. What can I serve with rice and lentils?
Serve it with yogurt, raita, pickles, salad, papad, or coconut yogurt for a delicious and complete meal.
8. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to increase nutrition and add more flavor.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Add a little water while reheating if needed.
10. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.
11. Why use Preeti’s Dal Masala in this recipe?
Preeti’s Dal Masala combines carefully selected Indian spices into one convenient blend, making it easier to create flavorful lentil dishes without measuring many individual spices.
Other Recipes With Preeti’s Indian Spice Blends
Aloo Gobi Recipe with Preeti’s All-Purpose Indian Kitchen Masala
Matar Paneer Recipe with Preeti’s All-Purpose Indian Kitchen Masala
Instant Pot Aloo Baigan with Preeti’s Indian Kitchen Masala
Punjabi Chole Recipe | Chana Masala with Preeti’s All Purpose Indian Kitchen Masala
