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An Easy Recipe for a Slow Monday: Comforting Dal
Mondays can often feel like a heavy weight after a relaxing weekend, especially when the skies are draped in gray, and the air is crisp. On days like this, a warm and comforting meal can turn the mood around and make the transition back to the weekly grind a little more manageable. One such dish that comes to the rescue is dal—a staple that offers both nourishment and a nostalgic taste of home.
Growing up, dal was a weeknight staple in many households, often served with rice or flatbreads and accompanied by some seasonal vegetables or pickles. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that can be made in a myriad of ways, but today, we will focus on a simple, comforting recipe that you can whip up in no time.
Easy Dal Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of lentils (masoor dal, toor dal, or split yellow moong dal are great options)
- 4 cups of water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (coconut oil is also a nice option)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the Lentils: Start by thoroughly rinsing the lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any impurities and excess starch.
Cook the Lentils: In a large pot, add the rinsed lentils and water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Cook for about 20-30 minutes, until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 6-7 minutes on medium heat.
Prepare the Tempering: In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the chopped onions, and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the garlic, ginger, green chilies, and chopped tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and the mixture is fragrant.
Spice it Up: Add the turmeric powder and mix well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to meld together.
Combine: Pour the tempering mixture into the pot with the cooked lentils. Add salt to taste and stir everything together. If the dal is too thick, you can add some water to reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine all the flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or enjoy it on its own. Squeeze some lemon juice on top for an extra punch of flavor if you like!
Why Dal is Perfect for Mondays
Dal isn’t just easy to make; it also provides comfort in every spoonful. The warm, soothing flavors remind many of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. On a slow Monday, when energy might be low, the protein-packed lentils offer nourishment and satisfaction. Moreover, dal provides the perfect backdrop for creativity; you can customize the spices, add leafy greens, or throw in any leftover veggies for extra nutrition.
As you cozy up on your couch, perhaps with a good book or your favorite show, a bowl of warm dal will likely be just the comfort you need to usher in the week ahead. So the next time a Monday feels heavy, remember this easy recipe. It’s one that warms not just the belly, but also the soul. Enjoy!
