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Yellow Split Pea Dal Recipe

Yellow Split Pea Dal Recipe

A warm, comforting Indian-style dal made with yellow split peas, simple spices, and a rich, cozy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep. This dish is budget-friendly, protein-packed, and easy even for beginners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian / Pakistani
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup yellow split peas washed and rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder or garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder optional
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped for garnish
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges

Method
 

  1. Rinse the yellow split peas well until the water runs mostly clear.
  2. Add split peas and water to a pot and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for about 25–30 minutes until soft.
  4. Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds.
  5. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and lightly golden.
  6. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, curry powder, and chili powder.
  8. Cook the mixture for 3–4 minutes until slightly thick.
  9. Add the cooked spice mixture into the pot with the peas.
  10. Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes.
  11. Add salt to taste and adjust consistency with water if needed.
  12. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Rinsing split peas improves texture and flavor.
Add warm water if the dal becomes too thick.
For extra richness, stir in a little butter or coconut milk at the end.
Dal tastes even better the next day after flavors develop.
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