The Classic Tadka Dhal
The Classic Tadka Dhal - serves 4
Takda means to temper, a special technique where whole or ground spices are briefly roasted in oil or ghee (clarified butter) to release their natural oils and making their flavor more aromatic. Warm and spicy, this dish is perfect for these cold winter days.
You’ll need
250g red lentils
1 tbsp vegetable or rapeseed oil,
50g butter or vegan butter
3 cloves garlic - finely chopped
1/2 tsp black mustard seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp crushed or ground chillies (optional)
1 tsp salt, 1/2 fresh lemon or 1 tbsp lemon juice
handful of coriander
To cook - it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3…..
Lentils - Place lentils in a medium-sized pan covering with approx 1cm water. Bring to a gentle simmer and then loosely cover with the lid and cook on a low heat for approx 10-15 minutes until texture like loose porridge. Do not cover completely and check every few minutes and add more water as necessary.
Tadka - Heat oil and butter in a pan until hot, turn down the heat and add cumin and mustard seeds and warm until aromatic and starting to pop and fizzle. Now add chopped garlic and cook until lightly golden brown. Add turmeric and chilli powder (if using) and take off heat.
Finish - Pour tempered spices and garlic over cooked lentils, add salt and lemon juice and stir through. Taste for salt and adjust as necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander and serve with parathas or naan for a light meal or serve alongside curries for a larger dinner.
Neha Hampton
Neha is a 200-hour RYT who did her training with us in beautiful Sri Lanka. Born in UK to Gujarati parents, Neha is a true global citizen. She lives in the south of England, surrounded by beautiful countryside where she spends her time practising the art of living well. In 2018 she started a new adventure and nowadays you can find her creating meaningful connections with people whilst sharing her love for global cuisine, yoga and travel.
”These moments come in many forms and if I have learnt one thing this year, it is the need to adapt and stay relevant to the world around us. Follow me and join my journey @nehahampton”