Table of Contents Tuwar Dal with Ridge Gourd
- Introduction toTuwar Dal with Ridge Gourd
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients Needed
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuwar Dal
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage & Reheating Tips
- Variations You Can Try
- Health Benefits of Tuwar Dal
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Recipe Card
- Final Thoughts
1. Introduction to Tuwar Dal with Ridge Gourd
Tuwar Dal with Ridge Gourd, also known as Toor Dal or Arhar Dal, is one of the most loved and commonly prepared lentil dishes in Indian homes. Rich in protein and packed with flavor, this humble dal is a staple in many Indian states including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
It is made using pigeon peas simmered with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and traditional Indian spices, resulting in a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or soft phulkas. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dal is a must-try comfort food that never fails.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Quick and easy – Ready in just 45 minutes.
- ✅ Budget-friendly – Made with pantry staples.
- ✅ High in protein – Great for vegetarians and vegans.
- ✅ Customizable – Easily adjustable spice levels.
- ✅ Comfort food – Warm, flavorful, and soothing.
This garlic-infused dal is a treat for the taste buds and the soul!
3. Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delicious Tuwar Dal:
- 1 cup tuwar dal (pigeon peas) – Soaked for 30 minutes.
- 10–12 garlic cloves – Crushed for maximum flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oil – Preferably mustard or vegetable oil.
- 1 onion – Chopped finely.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Or to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder – For color and earthy aroma.
- 1.5 teaspoons red chili powder – Adjust as per spice tolerance.
- 2 tomatoes – Chopped.
- 2 cups water – For pressure cooking.
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder – For a hint of citrusy depth.
- Chopped coriander leaves – For garnishing.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow this easy guide for a perfect bowl of hot and comforting Tuwar Dal:
Step 1: Soak the Dal
Wash the tuwar dal under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in clean water for at least 30 minutes. This reduces cooking time and ensures a creamy texture.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic cloves. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until golden and aromatic. This forms the flavor base.
Step 3: Add Onions and Spices
Add chopped onions, salt, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Sauté for another 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.
Step 4: Cook Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes. Stir and cook for 5 minutes until they break down and become pulpy.
Step 5: Add Dal and Water
Drain the soaked dal and add it to the cooker. Pour in 2 cups of water. Mix well.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and pressure cook on low flame for about 4 to 5 whistles. Let the pressure release naturally.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Open the lid. Stir in the coriander powder and fresh chopped coriander. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
5. Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuwar Dal
- Use fresh garlic – It adds a lot of flavor.
- Soaking is key – It helps in faster cooking and better digestion.
- Don’t skimp on the onions and tomatoes – They create a rich masala base.
- Add ghee for richness – You can drizzle a teaspoon of ghee before serving for extra flavor.
- Adjust consistency – Add water to get your preferred thickness.
6. Serving Suggestions
Tuwar Dal is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes:
- Steamed Basmati Rice – The classic pairing.
- Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) – For added aroma.
- Roti or Phulka – Ideal for a light dinner.
- Bhakri or Bajra Roti – A rustic Maharashtrian touch.
- Papad & Pickle – For an authentic thali experience.
Pro Tip: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice before serving to elevate the flavors!
7. Storage & Reheating Tips
Storage:
Let the dal cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave. Add a little water to loosen the consistency if it thickens in the fridge.
Freezing:
You can freeze the dal in zip-lock bags or containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
8. Variations You Can Try
- Tadka Tuwar Dal – Add a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, dry red chilies, and hing (asafoetida) in ghee.
- Tuwar Dal with Coconut – Add freshly grated coconut for a South Indian twist.
- Spinach Tuwar Dal – Add spinach or methi leaves while pressure cooking.
- Tuwar Dal Fry – Cook the dal thick and dry, great with paratha or puri.
- Sweet and Tangy Dal – Add a pinch of jaggery and a spoonful of tamarind pulp for Gujarati-style dal.
9. Health Benefits of Tuwar Dal
Tuwar dal is not just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients too!
- ✅ Rich in protein – Essential for vegetarians.
- ✅ High in fiber – Aids digestion.
- ✅ Low glycemic index – Suitable for diabetics.
- ✅ Contains folate, magnesium, and iron – Supports overall health.
- ✅ Promotes heart health – Thanks to its potassium content.
Adding Tuwar Dal to your regular diet is an easy way to eat healthy without compromising on flavor.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can I use a regular pot instead of a pressure cooker?
Yes, but the cooking time will increase significantly. Simmer covered for 45–50 minutes until the dal is soft.
Q. Is Tuwar Dal the same as Toor Dal?
Yes, both refer to the same lentil—pigeon peas.
Q. Can I make this recipe vegan?
It already is vegan unless you add ghee as a topping. Just stick to oil for sautéing.
Q. Can I add other vegetables to this dal?
Absolutely! Carrots, spinach, bottle gourd (lauki), or drumsticks (moringa) go well with tuwar dal.
Q. Is it okay to skip garlic?
Yes, but garlic adds depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding it for religious or dietary reasons, you can substitute with ginger.
11. Recipe Card: Quick View
Tuwar Dal (Toor Dal) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: ~200–250 per serving
- Servings: 3–4
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tuwar dal
- 10–12 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- Chopped coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Soak tuwar dal for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a cooker, sauté garlic for 5 mins.
- Add onions, salt, turmeric, chili powder—cook 5 mins.
- Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Add soaked dal and water, pressure cook for 4–5 whistles.
- Stir in coriander powder and garnish with fresh coriander.
- Serve hot with rice or roti.
12. Final Thoughts
This easy and flavorful Tuwar Dal recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a deeply comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, or someone looking to explore Indian cooking—this dal recipe checks all the boxes.
Make it a part of your weekly rotation, and your body (and taste buds) will thank you.
Tags:
#TuwarDal #IndianRecipes #DalRecipe #ComfortFood #VegetarianMeals #ProteinRich #QuickMeals #HomemadeDal #HealthyEating
