Citric Acid Free Vegan Mixed Dal Tadka

Total time55 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time40 min

4.5

(30)

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

4 servings

For the dal

½ cup red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed
½ cup yellow split lentils (moong dal), rinsed
4 cups water
½ tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste

For the tadka

2 tbsp neutral oil (such as sunflower oil or canola oil)
1 tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp black mustard seeds
2 dried red chiles
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp kashmiri red chile powder or mild paprika
½ tsp garam masala
1 tsp fresh lemon juice

For serving

2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the rinsed red lentils, yellow split lentils, water, turmeric, and 1 tsp salt in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally and skimming any foam that rises, until both lentils are completely soft and beginning to break down, 20–25 minutes. The mixture should be thick and porridge-like; add a splash of water if it becomes too stiff.
2
While the lentils cook, heat the neutral oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds and cook until the mustard seeds begin to pop and the cumin turns a shade darker, about 30–45 seconds. Add the dried red chiles and cook for 15 seconds, watching closely as they can darken quickly.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!