Craving a warm, creamy dal that’s rich in both taste and nutrients? This urad dal recipe (black dal) delivers on all fronts. Made with whole black gram lentils, simmered in aromatic spices and finished with creamy tempering—it’s the essence of homestyle comfort.
Ideal for a quick weekday dinner or a hearty weekend meal, this black dal recipe beautifully balances flavor and health. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, it’s equally loved by fitness enthusiasts, vegetarians, and dal lovers.
Ingredients
To Cook the Dal:
– ½ cup whole urad dal (black gram), soaked 4–6 hrs
– ½ cup chana dal (Bengal gram) – optional for creaminess
– 3 cups water (plus more as needed)
For Tempering (Tadka):
– 2 tbsp oil or ghee (+ 1 tbsp ghee to finish)
– ½ tsp cumin seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 black cardamom
– 1″ cinnamon stick
– ¾ cup chopped onion
– 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1¼ cup tomato puree (or 2 chopped tomatoes)
– ½ tsp turmeric powder
– ⅓–½ tsp Kashmiri chili powder (adjust)
– ½ tsp garam masala
– Salt to taste
– A pinch kasuri methi (optional)
– 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soak and rinse the dals.
2. Pressure-cook the dal.
3. Mash for creaminess.
4. Prepare the tadka.
5. Sauté onions & aromatics.
6. Add spices and tomato.
7. Combine dal & simmer.
8. Finish with flavor.
9. Serve piping hot.
Protein-Rich Dal Recipes
Looking for a healthy Indian dal recipe that’s rich in protein? Urad dal stands out with over 25g protein per 100g—higher than most pulses. Including it in your meals boosts muscle-building and energy while supporting vegetarian diets.
Tips and Tricks
– Use whole urad dal for thick, creamy texture.
– Pre-soak longer in cold climates.
– Mash some dal for richness.
– Adjust spice level.
– Air-fry toppings.
– One-pot version tip.
Nutritional Benefits
Black urad dal nutrition (per 100g uncooked):
– Calories: 341 kcal
– Protein: 25g
– Fiber: 18g
– Iron: 7.6mg
Health highlights:
– Stabilizes blood sugar
– Aids digestion
– Enhances bone health
– Supports heart health
– Boosts energy with iron
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I make urad dal without pressure cooker?
Yes, simmer for 45–60 min until tender.
Q2. What’s the difference between black and white urad dal?
Black has the skin; white is skinned and milder.
Q3. Can I prepare it in an Instant Pot?
Yes, 15‑18 min on “Manual/High”.
Q4. How to reduce gas from dal?
Add asafoetida and soak longer.
Q5. Is this suitable for diabetic diets?
Yes, low-GI and fiber-rich.
Conclusion
This urad dal recipe is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, nutritious, and deeply satisfying.
Also Read – Dal Palak Recipe – Healthy & Flavorful Spinach Dal
