Delhi Dal Tadka is a rich and aromatic North Indian lentil dish made with slow-cooked yellow lentils (dal) tempered with ghee, garlic, cumin, and red chilies, delivering a smoky, flavorful, and comforting taste.
A staple in Delhi and North Indian cuisine, Delhi Dal Tadka is a soul-satisfying dish known for its creamy texture, bold flavors, and signature smoky aroma. Made with a combination of toor dal (pigeon peas) and moong dal (yellow lentils), this dish is slow-cooked until soft and then infused with a tempering (tadka) of ghee, garlic, onions, tomatoes, cumin, and dried red chilies.
What makes Delhi-style Dal Tadka unique is the Dhungar (smoking) method, where a piece of hot charcoal is placed in the dal with ghee, giving it a distinct smoky essence, reminiscent of traditional dhaba-style cooking. The dish is further seasoned with turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), adding layers of depth and richness to its taste.
Best enjoyed with jeera rice, butter naan, or tandoori roti, Delhi Dal Tadka is a comforting, nutritious, and protein-rich dish that is loved in homes, dhabas, and restaurants across North India. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates the warmth of homestyle Indian cooking!