Tarka Dhal is a staple Indian dish that's super simple and seriously tasty. This delightful recipe features red lentils seasoned with turmeric, coriander, and spices, cooked to perfection and topped with a delicious garlic tarka.
1: Heat a little oil in a big pot on medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and fry for 8 minutes or until soft.
2: Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot along with 1.5 litres of water, the turmeric, coriander, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
3: Stir, then bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook with the lid on for 15 minutes.
4: Remove the lid, reduce the heat and leave to cook on low for a few minutes while making the tarka.
5: Heat 6 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan on medium-high heat. Once hot, add the garlic and fry for 1-2 minutes.
6: Trim a tiny bit off the ends of the chillies to allow the heat to escape into the dhal.
7: Add the chillies to the oil along with the cumin seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, and ginger, and fry for 1-2 minutes.
8: Quickly add the oil mixture to the pot with the lentils. Stir to combine then simmer for 5 minutes or longer if a thicker consistency is desired.
9: Serve with chopped fresh coriander (optional).
