Step 1

Rinse urad and chana dal very well, rubbing with your fingers. Repeat the rinse thrice and soak overnight or for a minimum of 7 hours. Drain the water and rinse when you are ready to cook.

Step 2

Pour oil or ghee to a hot pressure cooker and add cumin seeds, cinnamon and black cardamom. When the seeds begin to sizzle, add onions and saute for 5 mins, until light golden.

Step 3

Add ginger, garlic and green chili. Saute for 2 mins and stir in turmeric, salt, red chili powder and garam masala powder. Add the tomatoes and saute for a minute or 2.

Step 4

Add the dal and pour water. Mix well and close the pressure cooker. Pressure cook for 8 whistles on a medium heat. or If using instant pot, pressure cook for 35 mins. Let the pressure drop naturally.

Step 5

Open the lid and mash the lentils with a masher. You want nearly half (or ⅓) of the lentils to be broken down/mashed. Pour hot water in batches and simmer for 20 to 25 mins until really thick, aromatic and creamy.

Step 6

Taste test and add more salt to your taste. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of garam masala (if you want), kasuri methi (optional), ghee and coriander leaves.

Step 7

Serve urad dal with basmati rice or naan, plain parathas, roti or kulcha.