🍲 Toor Dal Fry Recipe – Authentic Indian Arhar Dal Fry

Toor Dal Fry (also known as Arhar Dal Fry or Split Pigeon Pea Dal Fry) is a comforting and flavorful Indian dal recipe made with toor dal, aromatic spices, and a rich onion-tomato tempering. This yellow dal fry recipe is a staple in Indian homes and is loved for its creamy texture, homely flavors, and high protein content.

A perfect Indian vegetarian side dish, toor dal fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, jeera rice, roti, or paratha. It’s healthy, quick, and loaded with nutrients, making it ideal for lunch or dinner.

🛒 Ingredients for Toor Dal Fry (Serves 4)

Main Ingredients:

• Toor dal (split pigeon peas) – 1 cup

• Water – 3 cups (for boiling)

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

For the Tadka (Tempering):

• Ghee or oil – 2 tbsp

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch

• Garlic – 4–5 cloves, finely chopped

• Green chilies – 2, slit

• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped

• Tomato – 2 medium, finely chopped

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp

• Coriander powder – 1 tsp

• Garam masala – ¼ tsp

• Fresh coriander leaves – 2 tbsp, chopped

• Lemon juice – 1 tsp (optional)

🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation – Toor Dal Fry Recipe

Step 1 – Wash & Cook the Dal

1. Rinse toor dal 2–3 times until water runs clear.

2. In a pressure cooker, add dal, 3 cups water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt.

3. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles until soft and mushy.

4. Mash the dal lightly with a ladle for a creamy texture.

Step 2 – Prepare the Tadka

1. Heat ghee or oil in a pan.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.

3. Add a pinch of asafoetida for aroma.

4. Add chopped garlic and green chilies; sauté until golden.

5. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.

6. Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.

Step 3 – Add Spices & Dal

1. Add red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala; mix well.

2. Pour the cooked toor dal into the pan and stir.

3. Adjust consistency by adding hot water if needed.

4. Simmer for 5 minutes so flavors blend together.

Step 4 – Garnish & Serve

1. Switch off heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

2. Add lemon juice for a tangy flavor.

3. Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, or paratha.

🍛 Serving Suggestions

• Everyday Comfort Meal: Toor dal fry with plain rice and papad.

• Restaurant Style: Pair with tandoori roti and salad.

• Gujarati Thali: Serve with bhindi fry, kadhi, and rice.

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approx.)

💡 Tips for the Best Toor Dal Fry

• Soak dal for 30 minutes before cooking for faster cooking.

• Use ghee instead of oil for a richer taste.

• For a restaurant-style flavor, add a teaspoon of kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) at the end.

• You can also add boiled vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Toor Dal Fry Recipe

• Nutritious & protein-rich – perfect for vegetarians.

• Comforting taste – like homemade dal from childhood.

• Quick to cook – ready in under 30 minutes.

• Versatile – works with rice, roti, or paratha.

📍 Location & Origin

• Cuisine: North Indian & West Indian

• Region: Popular in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh

• Best Served With: Steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, or paratha

History & Background:
Toor dal, also called arhar dal or pigeon pea lentils, has been a staple in Indian kitchens for centuries. Its nutty flavor and high protein content make it a favorite everyday dish. The tadka (tempering) style of cooking adds depth of flavor with cumin, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices.

Interesting Facts :-
This Toor Dal Fry is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday dinner or a complete Sunday lunch, this recipe will bring the authentic flavors of Indian home cooking right to your plate.