Dal Tadka with Jeera Rice Recipe

Dal Tadka paired with Jeera Rice is a classic Indian comfort meal that combines the rich flavors of spiced lentils with the aromatic simplicity of cumin-flavored rice. This wholesome and satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. Follow this detailed recipe to master the art of making Dal Tadka with Jeera Rice.

Ingredients

Table of Contents

For Dal Tadka:

1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils) or a mix of toor dal and masoor dal (red lentils)
3 cups water
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 green chilies, slit
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
2 dried red chilies
A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
2 tablespoons ghee or oil
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

For Jeera Rice:

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon ghee or oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1-2 bay leaves
2-3 whole cloves
1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dal

Rinse the Lentils:
- Rinse the dal thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the dal for 15-20 minutes to reduce cooking time (optional).
Cook the Dal:
- In a pressure cooker or pot, add the rinsed dal, 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook until the dal is soft and mushy. This typically takes 2-3 whistles in a pressure cooker or 20-25 minutes in a pot.
- Mash the cooked dal lightly with the back of a spoon and set aside.
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chilies. Let them splutter.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida, followed by minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil separates.
- Pour the cooked dal into the pan, mix well, and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Adjust the consistency with water as needed and check seasoning.
Final Garnish:
- Heat a teaspoon of ghee in a small pan, add a few cumin seeds, a pinch of red chili powder, and pour this over the dal.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Step 2: Prepare Jeera Rice

Rinse the Rice:
- Wash the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.
Cook the Rice:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.
- Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, and the cinnamon stick (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Add the soaked and drained rice and gently stir to coat the grains with the spiced oil.
- Pour in 2 cups of water, add salt, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Plate the Dish:
- Serve a generous portion of jeera rice on a plate or in a bowl.
- Ladle the hot dal tadka over the rice.
Optional Accompaniments:
- Serve with papad, pickle, yogurt, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

Consistency of Dal: Adjust the dal’s thickness based on preference by adding more or less water.
Flavor Boosters:
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of butter for extra richness.
- Include kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an earthy flavor.
Rice Alternatives:
- Substitute basmati rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
Dal Variations:
- Use moong dal or chana dal instead of toor dal for a different flavor profile.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your heat tolerance.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the lentils, complemented by the carbohydrates and aromatic spices in the rice. It’s a well-balanced, hearty, and flavorful meal that caters to vegetarian diets and can be easily adapted for vegan preferences by using oil instead of ghee.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Dal Tadka with Jeera Rice, a timeless Indian classic that never fails to delight!