Dal Tadka With White Rice

White Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice

• 2 cups water

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice.

2. In a medium-sized pot, add the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat.

3. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.

Dal Tadka:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow or red lentils (dal)

• 3 cups water

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils under running water until the water runs clear. Drain the lentils and set aside.

2. In a medium-sized pot, add the lentils and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle and release their aroma.

4. Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden brown.

5. Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy.

6. Stir in turmeric powder and red chili powder. Cook for a minute to toast the spices.

7. Pour the cooked lentils into the pan with the spice mixture. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed.

8. Add salt to taste and give it a final stir.

9. Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

To serve, place a portion of white rice on a plate and ladle the hot Dal Tadka over the rice. You can enjoy it with a side of plain yogurt or pickle.