Daal Pulao
Daal Pulao is a comforting, one-pot Indian dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with protein-rich lentils and an array of spices. This dairy-free meal is perfect for a nourishing dinner and is both flavorful and satisfying.

40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Indian
350 kcal
Ingredients
- Basmati rice - 1 cup
- Yellow split peas (moong dal) - 1/2 cup
- Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomato - 1 medium, chopped
- Green chili - 1, slit
- Ginger - 1 inch, grated
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander powder - 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - to taste
- Water - 3 cups
- Fresh coriander leaves - for garnish
Steps
- Rinse the basmati rice and yellow split peas under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak them in water for 20 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomato, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomato softens, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the soaked rice and lentils, then add them to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the spices.
- Pour in 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice and lentils are fully cooked and water is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the Daal Pulao with a fork before serving.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 60 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Water: 0.5 L
Health Benefits
- Rich in plant-based protein from lentils, supporting muscle health.
- High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Tags
IndianDairy-FreeDinner