15 Simple South Indian Toor Dal Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
Toor dal, also known as pigeon peas, is a staple ingredient in South Indian cuisine. This simple and delicious lentil dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the diverse flavors of India. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make a mouth-watering toor dal recipe that will transport you to the streets of South India. So, put on your apron and get ready to embark on a flavorful journey.
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Onion, Green Chili, Garlic, Mustard Seeds
Toor dal, also known as pigeon peas, is a staple in South Indian cuisine. This simple recipe takes this humble lentil and transforms it into a flavorful and comforting dish. Toor dal is a great source of protein and is also rich in essential minerals like iron and potassium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. Here's how to make a delicious South Indian style toor dal at home.
2of 20
South Indian Sambar
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Oil, Coriander, Cumin Seeds, Asafoetida
Sambar is a lentil-based stew that is popular in South Indian households. This hearty dish is packed with vegetables and spices, making it a healthy and flavorful meal. The key to a good sambar is in the spice blend, which includes coriander, cumin, and fenugreek. This dish is usually served with rice or as a side dish with idli or dosa. Here's a simple recipe for South Indian sambar that you can try at home.
3of 20
South Indian Pineapple Rasam
Main Ingredients: Pineapple Chunks, Toor Dal, Tomato, Asafoetida, Salt
Rasam is a tangy and spicy soup that is a staple in South Indian cuisine. This version of rasam is made with pineapple, giving it a unique and refreshing twist. Pineapple is a great source of vitamin C and adds a hint of sweetness to the dish. This recipe is perfect for those who love a little bit of heat and a burst of flavor in their meals.
4of 20
Sambar | South Indian sambar
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Gooseberry, Tamarind, Pearl Onions, Carrot
Sambar is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of lentils and vegetables. This South Indian version of sambar is made with a combination of toor dal and a variety of vegetables like drumsticks, eggplant, and pumpkin. The addition of tamarind gives the dish a tangy and slightly sour flavor. This dish is usually served with rice, idli, or dosa.
5of 20
South Indian Quinoa with Tamarind & Pumpkin
Main Ingredients: Oil, Quinoa, Water, Salt, Cayenne Pepper, Black Gram
For a healthier twist on a classic South Indian dish, try this quinoa recipe with tamarind and pumpkin. Quinoa is a great source of protein and is also gluten-free, making it a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions. The tamarind adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, while the pumpkin adds a creamy and savory element to the dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal.
6of 20
Pudina Chutney / Mint Chutney South Indian Style
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Mustard, Curry Leaves, Urad Dal, Toor Dal
Pudina chutney, or mint chutney, is a popular condiment in South Indian cuisine. It is made with fresh mint leaves, coriander, and a variety of spices, giving it a refreshing and spicy flavor. This chutney is usually served as a side dish with idli or dosa, but it can also be used as a dip for snacks like samosas or pakoras. Here's how to make a delicious mint chutney at home.
7of 20
South Indian Kale Stir-fry/ Kale Curry
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Coconut, Salt, Oil, Dried Red Chili, Mustard
Kale has gained popularity in recent years for its health benefits, and it has also found its way into South Indian cuisine. This kale stir-fry or curry is a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate this superfood into your diet. The kale is cooked with a variety of spices and coconut, giving it a creamy and flavorful finish. This dish can be served as a side dish or as a main course with rice.
8of 20
Sambar- South Indian lentil and vegetable stew
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Water, Turmeric, Diced Tomatoes, Sambar
Sambar is a staple in South Indian households and is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of lentils and vegetables. This version of sambar is made with a combination of lentils, vegetables like drumsticks and eggplant, and a special spice blend. The result is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.
9of 20
Lentil Dosa or Adai – South Indian healthy breakfast
Main Ingredients: Rice, Toor Dal, Urad Dal, Rajma, Peanuts, Moong Dal
Dosa is a popular South Indian breakfast dish that is made with a fermented batter of lentils and rice. This version of dosa, known as adai, is made with a combination of different lentils and is packed with protein and nutrients. This dish is usually served with chutney and sambar and is a healthy and filling breakfast option.
10of 20
Pudina Rasam | Mint Rasam | South Indian Mint Soup
Main Ingredients: Fresh Mint Leaves, Coriander Leaves, Toor Dal
Rasam is a staple in South Indian cuisine and is a tangy and spicy soup that is usually served with rice. This version of rasam is made with mint leaves, giving it a refreshing and aromatic flavor. The addition of tamarind and a variety of spices makes this dish a perfect comfort food on a cold day.
11of 20
Palakura Pappu Andhra Style | Easy Spinach Dal | Palak...
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Turmeric Powder, Onion, Green Chillies
Palakura pappu, or spinach dal, is a popular dish in Andhra Pradesh, a state in South India. This dish is made with a combination of lentils and spinach, making it a nutritious and delicious meal. The spinach adds a vibrant green color and a unique flavor to the dish, while the lentils provide a good source of protein. Here's a simple recipe for this easy and flavorful dal.
12of 20
Tomato Dal, easy Indian lentils
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Vegetable Oil, Asafetida, Cumin Seeds, Curry
Dal, or lentils, are a staple in Indian cuisine and are a great source of protein and other essential nutrients. This tomato dal is a simple and comforting dish that can be made with just a handful of ingredients. The tomatoes add a tangy and slightly sweet element to the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
13of 20
Dal Tadka (Yellow Indian Lentils)
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Water, Onion, Tomatoes, Green Chili
Dal tadka is a popular Indian dish that is made with yellow lentils and a special tempering of spices. This dish is usually served with rice or as a side dish with roti or naan. The combination of lentils and spices gives this dish a rich and flavorful taste that will leave you wanting more. Here's how to make a delicious dal tadka at home.
14of 20
Yellow Dal Tadka - Indian Lentil Soup
Main Ingredients: Moong Dal, Chana Dal, Toor Dal, Cloves, Onion
This yellow dal tadka, or Indian lentil soup, is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold day. The lentils are cooked with a variety of spices and a special tempering of onions and tomatoes, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. This dish is usually served with rice or as a side dish with roti or naan.
15of 20
(Savory Indian Dumplings, Spicy Kolukattai, Kongunadu...
Main Ingredients: Parboiled Rice, Toor Dal, Urad Dal, Green Chilies
Kolukattai is a popular South Indian snack that is made with a rice flour dough and a savory filling. This version of kolukattai is made with a spicy lentil filling, making it a perfect snack for those who love a bit of heat in their food. This dish is a specialty in Kongunadu, a region in South India, and is usually served with a spicy chutney or pickle.
16of 20
Eggplant Sambar - Indian Yellow Lentil Tamarind Dal
Main Ingredients: Safflower Oil, Black Mustard Seeds, Fenugreek Seeds
Eggplant sambar is a delicious and unique twist on the classic South Indian lentil stew. This dish is made with a combination of lentils, vegetables like eggplant and drumsticks, and a special spice blend. The addition of tamarind gives the dish a tangy and slightly sour flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy eggplant. Here's how to make this flavorful sambar at home.
17of 20
Adai/Adai Dosa Recipe (Indian Lentil Crepes)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Toor Dal, Chana Dal, Urad Dal, Green Chilli, Red
Adai is a type of dosa that is made with a variety of lentils and rice. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and other essential nutrients. The lentils are soaked and ground into a batter, which is then cooked into thin crepes. Adai is usually served with chutney and sambar and is a popular breakfast choice in South India.
18of 20
The Best Dal (How to make Indian yellow lentils)
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Turmeric, Vegetable Oil, Black Mustard Seeds
Dal is a staple in Indian cuisine and is a versatile dish that can be made in various ways. This recipe for the best dal, made with yellow lentils, is a must-try for all dal lovers. The lentils are cooked with a variety of spices and a special tempering, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. This dish is usually served with rice or as a side dish with roti or naan.
Adai is a popular South Indian dosa that is made with a variety of lentils and rice. This version of adai is made with a mix of different lentils, making it a nutritious and flavorful meal. The lentils are soaked and ground into a batter, which is then cooked into thin crepes. This dish is usually served with chutney and sambar and is a favorite among kids and adults alike.
20of 20
An Indian vegetable stew made with lentils and...
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Water, Turmeric, Salt, Oil, Cumin Seeds
This Indian vegetable stew, made with lentils and a variety of vegetables, is a perfect comfort food for any day. The lentils and vegetables are cooked with a special spice blend, giving the dish a delicious and aromatic flavor. The stew is usually served with rice or as a side dish with roti or naan. This dish is a great way to add more vegetables and lentils to your diet in a delicious way.
Ingredients You Will Need
1. Toor Dal
Toor dal is the main ingredient in this recipe. It is a type of lentil that is commonly used in South Indian cooking. Toor dal is a rich source of protein and is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is easily available in most grocery stores and can also be purchased online.
2. Spices
A variety of spices are used to add depth and flavor to the toor dal. These include cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. These spices not only enhance the taste of the dish but also have numerous health benefits.
3. Tomatoes and Onions
Tomatoes and onions are the two key vegetables used in this recipe. They add a tangy and sweet flavor to the dish, balancing out the spices and lentils. Make sure to use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best results.
4. Curry Leaves
Curry leaves are a must-have in South Indian cooking. They add a distinct flavor and aroma to the dish. Curry leaves are also known for their medicinal properties and are a great source of antioxidants.
5. Ghee or Oil
Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is traditionally used in South Indian cooking. It adds a rich and buttery flavor to the toor dal. However, if you prefer a healthier option, you can use oil instead.
Instructions
1. Soak and Rinse Toor Dal
Start by soaking the toor dal in water for at least 30 minutes. Then, rinse it well with water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove any dirt or impurities from the lentils.
2. Cook the Toor Dal
In a pot, add the soaked and rinsed toor dal along with water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the dal on medium heat until it is soft and mushy. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a pressure cooker to cook the dal, which will reduce the cooking time.
3. Prepare the Tadka
In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Then, add chopped tomatoes, curry leaves, and the remaining spices. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the tadka is fragrant.
4. Mix the Tadka with Dal
Add the tadka to the cooked toor dal and mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors can combine. If the dal is too thick, you can add some water to adjust the consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Your delicious toor dal is now ready to be served. Garnish with some fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan. This dish also pairs well with a side of vegetable curry or raita.
In conclusion, this simple South Indian toor dal recipe is a perfect blend of spices, lentils, and vegetables that will leave your taste buds wanting more. It is a nutritious and filling dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family. So, don't wait any longer and give this recipe a try today!
