Monday, March 24, 2014

Fried Dal (Lentil Soup) Recipe!!

Again one of those cold days here in the Midwest. It looks like spring is going to be a stranger this year. Anyways, at least there is food from which I can feel the warmth of summer days. Today, I made lentil soup, which is also called (Fried Dal) in Nepali. The extra ingredient I added was Basil. I do not now what it is but I am obsessed with Basil. The smell, taste, texture and just everything about it. There are several other ways to make lentil soup (Fried Dal) and here is how I prepare:


Oh!! Yumminess :D















Prep time: 10min(s) Cook time: 25min(s) Total time: 35min(s) 

Things you will need:

  • Any Yellow Lentil (1 and 1/2 cup)
  • Onion (1 medium sized, finely chopped)
  • Serrano Pepper (1, finely chopped. OPTIONAL)
  • Basil Leaves (3-4)
  • Ghee/Butter (2 table spoons)
  • Tomato (2 medium sized, finely chopped)
  • Cumin Seeds (1 tea spoon)
  • Fennel Seeds (1 tea spoon)
  • Mustard Seeds (1 tea spoon)
  • Cumin-Coriander Powder (1 table spoon)
  • Ginger-Garlic Paste (1/2 table spoon)
  • Turmeric (1 tea spoon)
  • Oil (1 tea spoon)
  • Salt (according to taste)
Directions:
  1. On a pressure cooker, add lentil and wash it 2-3 times. Add water and measure with your fingers (2 inches). Also add salt, 1/2 tea spoon turmeric powder and oil. Close the cap and cook it on a medium heat until it whistles thrice.
  2. Once, lentil is cooked, add water (according to the consistency you desire) and stir properly. 
  3. Heat Ghee/Butter and add basil leaves, fennel, cumin, and mustard seeds. Once seeds look brownish black add onion and Serrano pepper. Fry until golden Brown.
  4. Add tomato, coriander-cumin powder, ginger-garlic paste and remaining turmeric powder. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes. 
  5. Pour lentil onto the pan mixture and stir well. Cook on medium heat for 6-8 minutes.
  6. Serve with rice or bread :)