Dal Fry Tadka (Dhaba Style)

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

A flavorful and aromatic dal fry tadka, prepared in a traditional dhaba style, perfect for a hearty meal.

Dal Fry Tadka (Dhaba Style) recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Dal

  • Chana dal
    Chana dal
    1 1/2cup
  • Moong dhuli dal
    Moong dhuli dal
    1/2cup
  • salt
    salt
    1tbsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    1/2tbsp
  • Desi ghee
    Desi ghee
    1tbsp
  • water
    water
    8cups

Tadka

  • Desi ghee
    Desi ghee
    1 1/2tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tsp
  • medium chopped onion
    medium chopped onion
    2
  • ginger
    ginger
    1tbsp
  • crushed garlic
    crushed garlic
    1tbsp
  • slit green chilli
    slit green chilli
    4
  • red chilli powder
    red chilli powder
    1/2tbsp
  • degi mirch
    degi mirch
    1tsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • fresh tomato puree
    fresh tomato puree
    1cup
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1tsp
  • saunf powder
    saunf powder
    1tbsp
  • chopped coriander leaves
    chopped coriander leaves
    1tbsp

How to make Dal Fry Tadka (Dhaba Style)

Cooking Dal

  1. Step 1

    Wash the chana dal and moong dhuli dal thoroughly.

  2. Step 2

    Add salt, turmeric powder, Desi ghee, and water to the dal.

  3. Step 3

    Pressure cook until 6 whistles.

Preparing Tadka

  1. Step 1

    Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds.

  2. Step 2

    Add chopped onions and ginger, and cook for a few minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add crushed garlic and slit green chillies, and cook for a minute.

  4. Step 4

    Add red chilli powder, degi mirch, and coriander powder, and cook for a minute.

  5. Step 5

    Add fresh tomato puree and cook until it releases ghee.

Combining Dal and Tadka

  1. Step 1

    Open the pressure cooker and check if the dal is done.

  2. Step 2

    Add half of the tadka, garam masala, saunf powder, and chopped coriander leaves to the dal.

  3. Step 3

    Serve in a dish and add 1 tbsp of tadka on top.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

336.8kcal (16.84%)

Protein

17.6g (35.26%)

Carbs

43.0g (15.64%)

Sugars

3.0g (6%)

Healthy Fat

5.5g

Unhealthy Fat

7.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the dal is thoroughly cooked before adding the tadka.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

FAQS

  1. How do I cook Dal Fry Tadka in a traditional dhaba style?

    To cook Dal Fry Tadka in a traditional dhaba style, start by washing 1.5 cups of chana dal and 0.5 cups of moong dhuli dal thoroughly. Add salt, turmeric powder, desi ghee, and 8 cups of water, then pressure cook for 6 whistles. For the tadka, heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, chopped onions, ginger, garlic, and slit green chilies, cooking them until fragrant. Then, add spices and fresh tomato puree, cooking until the oil separates. Finally, mix the tadka with the cooked dal and serve.

  2. Is Dal Fry Tadka suitable for a vegan diet?

    Dal Fry Tadka can be made vegan by substituting desi ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients, including the lentils and spices, are naturally vegan, making it a hearty and nutritious option for those following a plant-based diet.

  3. What can I use as a substitute for chana dal in this recipe?

    If you don't have chana dal, you can substitute it with split yellow peas or even red lentils, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. Keep in mind that cooking times may differ, so adjust accordingly to ensure the lentils are fully cooked.

  4. How should I store leftover Dal Fry Tadka?

    To store leftover Dal Fry Tadka, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions, which can last for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

  5. What dishes pair well with Dal Fry Tadka for a complete meal?

    Dal Fry Tadka pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or naan. You can also serve it alongside a side of raita or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider adding a vegetable curry or some pickles for an extra kick.

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