Instant Pot Dal

This Instant Pot Dal doesn’t take a long time to make when you use the Instant Pot. You’ll have a hearty and wholesome Indian dish, made with lentils and plenty of spices, ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love It

• Balanced Nutrition: Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, offering plant-based protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy.
• Authentic Indian Flavors: The combination of curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin creates a symphony of flavors that’s rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. If you’re a fan of Indian food, you’ll appreciate the authenticity and depth of flavor in this dish.
• Quick and Convenient: Instant Pot Dal is a lifesaver on busy days. With the magic of the Instant Pot, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in a fraction of the time it takes traditionally.

» You might also like Instant Pot Lentils.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ghee or Cooking Oil – Ghee can be found in Indian grocery stores or specialty sections of your local supermarket.
• Small Onion – You’ll need about 1/2 cup of onion – yellow or white.
• Fresh Grated Ginger – If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of ground ginger.
• Garlic – Make sure your garlic is fresh for the best flavor.
• Spices – Curry Powder, garam masala, ground turmeric, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt. These spices are available in most grocery stores and comes in various spice levels. Choose those that suit your taste, from mild to hot.
• Dried Brown or Red Lentils – You can buy lentils in a bag in the rice aisle at the store. Brown or red lentils are best for this recipe.
• Water or broth – You can choose your cooking liquid. Using vegetable or chicken broth adds flavor to the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro – For garnish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using fresh parsley as an alternative garnish.
• Basmati Rice – For serving. Basmati can also be made in the Instant Pot.

Tips for Making Instant Pot Dal

• Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove any excess starch and prevents excessive foaming during cooking.
• If you’re uncertain about the spiciness, start with a smaller amount of cayenne and taste test. You can always add more if you prefer it spicier.
• If you have a larger Instant Pot, feel free to double the recipe to serve a crowd or have delicious leftovers for the next day. Just make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot.

How to Make Instant Pot Dal

Step 1: Sauté

Heat the Instant Pot on sauté mode. Add the ghee. Once hot, put the onion in the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add in the garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds.

Turn off sauté mode. 

Step 2: Add spices

Add in the curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne. Rinse the lentils thoroughly. Then add the broth and lentils to the Instant Pot stirring to combine. Remove any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set the vent to sealing (if necessary for your model).

Set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. When the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally until the pin drops, about 10 minutes. Remove the lid and stir.

Serve the dal with basmati rice and cilantro for garnish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storage

Refrigeration: Store any leftover dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing: If you have excess dal or want to prepare it in advance, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

Stovetop: To reheat, place the dal in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to maintain the desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and heat until it’s piping hot.

Microwave: For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions. Place the dal in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each cycle until it’s thoroughly heated.

Instant Pot: If reheating a large quantity, you can use the Instant Pot. Place the dal inside, select the “Sauté” function, and warm it up gradually, stirring to avoid sticking. Add a bit of water or broth if needed.

Questions About the Recipe