Ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal (yellow pigeon peas) or moong dal (yellow lentils)
• 2-3 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 2-3 dried red chilies (optional)
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Salt, to taste
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Dal:
   • Wash the dal thoroughly under running water.
   • In a pressure cooker, add the dal, turmeric powder, and 3 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is soft and mushy. If cooking in a pot, cook until the dal is soft, which may take around 20-25 minutes.
   • Once cooked, mash the dal lightly with a spoon or whisk to break it down.
2. Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):
   • Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chilies (if using). Allow them to crackle.
   • Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown.
   • Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
   • Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release oil from the sides.
3. Cook the Spinach:
   • Add the chopped spinach to the pan and sauté until it wilts down (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Add red chili powder (if using), cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine Dal and Spinach:
   • Add the cooked dal to the spinach mixture. Mix everything well, adding water to adjust the consistency (thicker for a more stew-like texture or thinner for a soupier dal).
   • Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Final Touches:
   • Add salt to taste and stir in lemon juice (optional) for a slight tang.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve with:

• Steamed rice, chapati, or naan. It’s a wholesome and nutritious meal!

Enjoy your delicious Dal Palak!