Whole Masoor Dal (Instant Pot Lentil Curry)

Step 1

Wash the whole masoor dal under running cold water till water runs clear. Or rinse in a bowl 2-3 times till water is not cloudy anymore.

Step 2

Soaking lentils is an optional step. If you want and have time, you can soak for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Turn on the electric pressure cooker with saute mode. Once hot add oil. Then add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.

Step 4

Then add onion and sprinkle a pinch of salt to speed the onion cooking process. Cook for 2-3 minutes or till onions are soft and light pink.

Step 5

Add ginger, garlic and green chili. Mix and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 6

Add tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7

Mix in all the spice powders except garam masala (turmeric, red chili powder, coriander, cumin powder). Also, add remaining salt.

Step 8

Add washed lentils, water and stir.

Step 9

Cover with the lid, keep the position of the vent to sealing. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 15 minutes. {it takes around 8 mins to come to pressue}. Then you can NPR or QPR after 10 mins.

Step 10

Add lemon juice, garam masala and cilantro. Stir well and serve.

Step 11

Take washed masoor dal into a pressure cooker and add 1 ½ cups of water. Cover with the lid, put the weight on and cook on medium heat for 5-6 whistles. Let the pressure go down by itself and open the lid.

Step 12

Heat the oil in a pan on medium heat. Once hot add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.

Step 13

Then add ginger garlic and green chili, saute for 40-45 seconds.

Step 14

Add chopped onions and sprinkle a little salt. Cook till onions are soft and light pink in color.

Step 15

Now mix in chopped tomatoes. Cook till tomatoes are soft and almost mushy.

Step 16

Add remaining salt and spice powders (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder and garam masala).

Step 17

Then add cooked masoor dal and another ½-1 cup of water depending on the consistency you prefer. Mix and simmer for 5-6 minutes.

Step 18

Squeeze fresh lemon juice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.