Masoor Dal (Pink Lentil Soups)

Dal is an Indian name for lentil, which is part of legume family. Especially in Indian-Sub continent, Dals are the integral part of every household and cooked at least two to three times in a week. The good things about lentils are that they are not perishable like vegetables and can be stored for longer period of time. They are so versatile that they can be used on wide range of dishes starting from Salad to Main course and from Soups to Dessert. These days, varieties of lentils are grown around the world i.e., yellow, red-orange, pink, green, brown, black, etc., and are available throughout the season. Among them, Pink lentil (Masoor Dal) is one popular type. The dishes made of Pink lentil are not only delicious, but also have some huge health benefits…

Like other legumes, Pink Lentils also have numerous nutritional benefits. It contains high level of proteins with no fat. It is also rich source of dietary fiber, vitamin B1 with essential minerals that is necessary to maintain a good health. Pink lentils help preventing the cough in the lungs and reduce acidity. As per the Health magazine lentils are been regarded as one of the five healthiest foods.

Ingredients:

·         Pink Lentil (Masoor Dal) – 1 Cup

·         Garlic Cloves (Chopped)– 7-8

·         Green Chilly (Chopped) – 2

·         Onion (Chopped) – 1(Medium)

·         Tomato (Chopped) – 2 (Large)

·         Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp

·         Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp

·         Coriander Leaves – ¼ Cup (Chopped)

·         Salt as per taste

·         Clarified Butter (Ghee) / Cooking Oil – 1 tbsp

·         Water  - 2 Cups

Preparation Method:

Ø  Take a heavy bottom Pan, add Water, Masoor Dal, Turmeric Powder & Salt; boil till they are tendered and keep aside.

Ø  Heat Oil in a Pan and add cumin seed, when it crackles

Ø  Add Chopped Garlic, Green Chili and Onion: fry till golden brown.

Ø  Then add Chopped Tomato and cook for 10 minutes so that it gets completely mashed.

Ø  Finally add the mixture with Dal along with Chopped Coriander leaves & cook for 5 minutes.

Ø  Now the “Masoor Dal” is ready. Serve it hot.

Masoor Dal is well served with Steamed Rice.