Channa Dal with Preeti's Dal Masala
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.
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.