Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSherkaan Indian Street FoodMoong Masoor Dal Recipe

Moong Masoor Dal Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

a light stew made with red and yellow lentils, served with basmati rice (V+, GF)

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Ingredients

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Lentils

Vegetables & Aromatics

Spices

Liquid

For Serving

Method

Preparation of Lentils

  1. 1

    Rinse the Lentils

    Thoroughly rinse the moong and masoor dal under running water until the water runs clear.

  2. 2

    Soak the Lentils

    Soak the lentils in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.

Cooking the Dal

  1. 3

    Sauté the Aromatics

    In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter, then add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

  2. 4

    Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices

    Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté for another minute. Add turmeric powder and salt, mixing well.

  3. 5

    Cook the Tomatoes

    Add the chopped tomato and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  4. 6

    Add Lentils and Water

    Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with 4 cups of water. Stir to combine.

  5. 7

    Simmer the Dal

    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

  6. 8

    Finish with Garam Masala

    Once the dal is cooked, stir in garam masala and adjust salt if needed. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Cooking the Rice

  1. 9

    Prepare the Basmati Rice

    While the dal is cooking, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, combine 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.

Serving

  1. 10

    Serve the Dish

    Serve the moong masoor dal hot with basmati rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges on the side.

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