Punjabi Dal Tadka is a flavorful and comforting Indian dish made with lentils, aromatic spices, and a rich tempering (tadka) of ghee, garlic, and red chilies. This classic dal is a staple in North Indian households and a must-try for those who love authentic Indian flavors.

In this recipe, we will show you how to make Punjabi-style Dal Tadka at home, step by step, with tips to enhance the taste.

Ingredients

For the Dal:

✅ 1 cup Toor Dal (Arhar Dal / Split Pigeon Pea)
✅ ½ cup Moong Dal (Yellow Lentils) – Optional, for extra creaminess
✅ 3 cups Water
✅ 1 Medium Onion – Finely chopped
✅ 2 Medium Tomatoes – Finely chopped
✅ 1 Green Chili – Slit
✅ 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
✅ ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
✅ 1 tsp Red Chili Powder
✅ 1 tsp Coriander Powder
✅ ½ tsp Garam Masala
✅ Salt to taste
✅ 1 tbsp Ghee or Butter

For the Tadka (Tempering):

✅ 2 tbsp Ghee
✅ 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
✅ 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
✅ 2 Dry Red Chilies
✅ 4-5 Garlic Cloves – Finely chopped
✅ ¼ tsp Asafoetida (Hing)
✅ 1 tsp Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)
✅ 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander – Chopped
✅ 1 tsp Lemon Juice (Optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Cooking the Dal

1️⃣ Wash the toor dal and moong dal thoroughly and soak them for 15-20 minutes.
2️⃣ In a pressure cooker or pan, add the dal along with water, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
3️⃣ Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles (or boil in a pot until soft and mushy).
4️⃣ Once cooked, mash the dal slightly for a creamy consistency. Set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Masala

1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan, add chopped onions, and sauté until golden brown.
2️⃣ Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3️⃣ Stir in the chopped tomatoes and green chili. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft.
4️⃣ Add garam masala and mix well.
5️⃣ Pour the cooked dal into the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust consistency with water if needed.

Step 3: Making the Tadka (Final Tempering)

1️⃣ In a small pan, heat 2 tbsp ghee.
2️⃣ Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dry red chilies, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.
3️⃣ Add chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown.
4️⃣ Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add to the tadka.
5️⃣ Pour this tempering over the dal and mix well.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving

✅ Add fresh coriander leaves and a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
✅ Serve hot with jeera rice, roti, or naan.

Tips for the Best Punjabi Dal Tadka

Use ghee for authentic flavor – It enhances the richness of the dal.
Mash the dal well – This gives a creamy texture to the dish.
Add a smoky flavor (Dhungar method) – Place a hot charcoal in a bowl, pour ghee over it, and cover the dal for 5 minutes.
Adjust the spice level – Add or reduce chilies as per taste.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

📌 Calories: 180-200
📌 Protein: 10g
📌 Carbohydrates: 25g
📌 Fiber: 5g
📌 Fats: 7g

Punjabi Dal Tadka is a soul-satisfying, protein-rich dish that pairs well with jeera rice or rotis. It’s not only delicious and comforting but also nutritious and easy to make. Try this recipe at home and enjoy an authentic Punjabi meal!

Also Read – How to Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time – Foolproof Guide & Tips