Looking for a healthy, easy-to-cook, and protein-packed dish? This Masoor Dal recipe is perfect! Whether you love lal masoor dal, sabut masoor dal, or the rich flavors of akkha masoor, this detailed guide will help you make a flavorful bowl of masoor ki dal at home.
What is Masoor Dal?
Masoor dal (also known as masoor ki dal or malka masoor dal) refers to red lentils, which come in two main types:
- Lal Masoor Dal – Skinned red lentils, fast cooking, mildly sweet
- Sabut Masoor Dal / Akkha Masoor / Masoor Whole – Whole brown lentils with skin, earthy flavor, and rich in fiber
It’s called:
- Masoor Dal in Hindi – मसूर दाल
- Masoor Dal in Telugu – మసూర్ పప్పు
- Masoor Dal in Tamil – மசூர் பருப்பு
Masoor Dal Nutrition & Health Benefits
Masoor dal benefits are numerous. It’s high in plant-based protein, low in fat, and rich in fiber and essential minerals. A perfect addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Nutritional Table (Per 100g Dry Masoor Dal)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fiber | 11g |
| Iron | 6.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fat | 1.5g |
Masoor dal protein per 100g is approximately 24 grams, making it a great meat alternative.
Masoor dal Ingredients
- ½ cup lal masoor dal or split masoor dal
- 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 green chili (slit, optional)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp red chili powder (or to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Optional additions: onions, curry leaves, mustard seeds, garam masala, moong masoor dal combo
How to Make Masoor Dal (Stovetop & Pressure Cooker)
Step 1: Cook the Dal
- Wash and rinse the masoor dal 2-3 times.
- Add it to a pot/pressure cooker with tomatoes, green chili, and 2 cups water.
- Cook:
- Pressure cooker: 1-2 whistles
- Stovetop: Simmer 20–25 mins, until soft
- Once done, mash slightly for a smooth texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
- Heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds, chopped garlic, and red chilies.
- Once garlic is golden, add turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
- Mix the tempering into the dal.
- Simmer 2-3 mins and garnish with coriander leaves.
Masoor Dal Variations
- Akkha Masoor Dal Recipe: Use whole black masoor dal or masoor whole, cook for longer (30-35 mins), and temper with robust spices.
- Masoor Pulao / Masoor Pulav: Cook dal with rice and spices for a complete one-pot meal.
- Moong Masoor Dal: Mix split moong dal with masoor dal for creamier texture.
- Yellow Masoor Dal: Rare variant, often mixed with other dals for a mild flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh lentils for better flavor and faster cooking.
- Don’t add salt until lentils are soft; it can harden them.
- For vegan version, skip ghee and use oil.
- Adjust consistency with warm water as dal thickens after cooling.
Masoor Dal Price
Looking to buy? Here’s the average masoor dal price:
| Quantity | Price Range (INR) |
| 500g | ₹50 – ₹70 |
| 1kg | ₹90 – ₹140 |
| Organic | ₹120 – ₹180 |
You can find masoor dal images and purchase online or in stores. Just search “masoor dal near me.”
Storage & Leftovers
- Store cooked dal in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add a bit of water while reheating.
- Dry masoor dal 1kg packs last 6–12 months if stored in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is masoor dal good for health?
Yes! It’s high in protein, fiber, iron, and great for digestion.
Q: Can I make masoor dal without a pressure cooker?
Absolutely. Just simmer it longer in a regular pot.
Q: Is masoor dal vegan?
Yes, if you use oil instead of ghee.
Q: What is black masoor dal?
It’s the whole version of red lentils with skin. Also known as sabut masoor dal or akkha masoor.
Q: Is masoor dal suitable for weight loss?
Yes, it’s high in protein and low in fat—perfect for healthy diets.
Whether you’re cooking masoor dal in Tamil, masoor dal in Telugu, or looking for a comforting bowl of akkha masoor dal, this wholesome lentil is a staple in every Indian kitchen.
Next time you’re planning your meal, add a bowl of this protein-rich masoor ki daal with rice or roti for a satisfying, balanced diet.
Ready to cook? Bookmark this akkha masoor recipe or try out a warm, spiced masoor pulao today!