Tomato Tadka Dal (Indian Style Lentil Soup) Recipe

Name: Tomato Tadka Dal (Indian Style Lentil Soup)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Dal; 1 cup yellow lentils; 3 cups sliced tomatoes; 4 cups water; 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder; For Tadka (tempering); 2 tablespoons oil or clarified butter; 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida; 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2 tablespoons curry leaves; 3 cloves garlic (chopped); 4-5 cherry tomatoes (sliced into halves); 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Servings: persons

Dal
1 cup yellow lentils
3 cups sliced tomatoes
4 cups water
1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder
For Tadka (tempering)
2 tablespoons oil or clarified butter
1/4 teaspoon asafoetida
1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2 tablespoons curry leaves
3 cloves garlic (chopped)
4-5 cherry tomatoes (sliced into halves)
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1
Wash lentils thoroughly to the extent that water comes clear when added to it.
2
Add tomatoes, salt and turmeric along-with 4 cups of water and place it on burner on high.( If you are using a pressure cooker place it on medium.)
3
Once water starts to boil turn the heat to medium low, cover it with a lid and let it cook.
4
After lentils are cooked well turn off the heat and start making tadka (temper for the lentils)
5
You'll need a small frying pan for making tadka. Heat oil/ghee in the pan.
6
Add asefotida. When it starts tempering add mustard and cumin seeds. (In case you don't easily find asefoetida you can totally omit it)
7
It will start popping if the oil is hot enough and then add garlic. Let it brown.
8
Add sliced tomatoes. Cook then for about 4-5 minutes and just before they start to melt add cayenne pepper.
9
Turn the heat off immediately and add the tadka to hot lentils. Mix well.

171

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: Dal, 1 cup yellow lentils, 3 cups sliced tomatoes, 4 cups water, and more.

Yes, Tomato Tadka Dal (Indian Style Lentil Soup) falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Tomato Tadka Dal (Indian Style Lentil Soup)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions