Daal Chawal (Lentil Curry with Rice - Nut-Free)

Ingredients

• 1 cup Yellow lentils (chana daal or moong daal)
• 1.5 cups Basmati rice
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
• 1 medium Tomato (chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 6-8 Curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• to taste Salt
• 6 cups Water

Instructions

1. 1Measure the 1 cup of yellow lentils into a fine-mesh sieve and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. Place the rinsed lentils in a medium bowl and cover them with water, then let them soak for 30 minutes.
2. 2While the lentils soak, measure the 1.5 cups of Basmati rice into a separate fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set the rinsed rice aside.
3. 3Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot on the stove over medium heat (350°F / 175°C). Add the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
4. 4Once the oil is shimmering, add the 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and the 0.5 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until the seeds begin to splutter and become fragrant.
5. 5Add the 6-8 curry leaves and the 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and golden brown.
6. 6Add the 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. 7Add the 1 medium tomato, chopped, and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato has softened.
8. 8Stir in the 0.5 teaspoon of turmeric powder and the 0.25 teaspoon of red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
9. 9Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pot along with the 6 cups of water and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
10. 10Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are very tender and the curry has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
11. 11While the lentils simmer, cook the rinsed 1.5 cups of Basmati rice according to your preferred method until fluffy and cooked through. Serve the hot lentil curry alongside the cooked rice.

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