Dal Tadka

Dal Tadka is a flavorful North Indian dish made with cooked yellow lentils (such as toor dal or moong dal) that are tempered (tadka) with a hot mixture of ghee or oil, garlic, cumin seeds, onions, tomatoes, and various spices. The dal is boiled until soft and then simmered with a seasoning of cumin, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and sometimes asafoetida (hing) for an aromatic finish.

The tempering adds a burst of flavor to the mild, creamy lentils. The result is a comforting, slightly tangy, and savory dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or Indian breads like naan or roti. Garnished with fresh cilantro, Dal Tadka is a popular choice for everyday meals and is a staple in Indian cuisine.