Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Instant Pot Toor Dal Recipe – Quick & Authentic Indian Lentils

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – sometimes you just need a comforting bowl of dal, and you need it fast! This Instant Pot Toor Dal recipe is my go-to when I’m craving that warm, familiar taste of home but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. I first made this when I was a student and needed a quick, nourishing meal, and it’s been a staple ever since. It’s seriously foolproof, even if you’re new to Indian cooking. Get ready for a delicious, authentic lentil experience in under an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Toor Dal is a game-changer. It’s:

• Quick: Ready in under an hour, thanks to the magic of pressure cooking.
• Easy: Seriously, it’s a one-pot wonder.
• Flavorful: Packed with aromatic spices and that classic dal taste.
• Comforting: A warm, nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Versatile: Perfect with rice, roti, or even just a dollop of yogurt.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dal:

• 1 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal), soaked for 15-20 mins
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 serrano or green chili, finely chopped
• ½ – ¾ cup onion masala (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ – 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 3 cups water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Split Pigeon Peas (Toor Dal) – Types & Quality

Toor dal, also known as arhar dal, is the star of the show. You want good quality dal that’s bright yellow and splits easily. Older dal can be tougher and take longer to cook. I usually buy mine from an Indian grocery store, but you can find it online too. (About 200g)

Onion Masala – Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Onion masala is a flavour base for many Indian dishes. You can absolutely make your own (and it’s amazing when you do!), but a good quality store-bought version works perfectly well when you’re short on time. I keep a jar of frozen homemade masala in the freezer for days like these!

Garam Masala – Regional Variations & Blends

Garam masala is a blend of warming spices. Every family has their own recipe! The blend can vary quite a bit depending on the region. Feel free to use your favourite brand or make your own. (Around 5-10g)

Serrano Pepper – Heat Level & Substitutions

Serrano peppers add a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, use a milder green chili or remove the seeds. You could also substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you don’t have fresh chilies.

Oil – Choosing the Right Oil for Flavor

I prefer using a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for this recipe. But a teaspoon of ghee (clarified butter) added at the end can really elevate the flavour!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, soak the lentils in cold water for 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook faster and become nice and creamy. Drain and rinse them well.
2. Now, press the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add the oil and let it heat up for about a minute.
3. Add the cumin seeds and chopped serrano pepper. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until the cumin seeds turn fragrant and slightly brown. This blooming process really wakes up the flavours!
4. Add the soaked lentils, onion masala, salt, garam masala, and water to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid, making sure the pressure valve is closed. Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
6. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure.
7. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or your favourite Indian pickles.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this dal perfect:

Achieving the Perfect Dal Consistency

If your dal is too thick, add a little more hot water and stir. If it’s too thin, simmer it on sauté mode for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

Preventing Dal from Sticking to the Bottom of the Instant Pot

Make sure you’re stirring well when you first add the ingredients. A little bit of stirring during the sauté stage also helps.

Blooming Spices for Maximum Flavor

Don’t skip the step of sautéing the cumin seeds! It really makes a difference in the overall flavour.

Soaking Time – Does it Really Matter?

Soaking the lentils isn’t essential, but it does reduce the cooking time and makes the dal creamier. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it, but you might need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Toor Dal: This recipe is naturally vegan! Just make sure your onion masala doesn’t contain any dairy.
• Gluten-Free Toor Dal: This recipe is also naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level – Mild, Medium, or Hot: Adjust the amount of serrano pepper (or cayenne pepper) to your liking. My family prefers a medium spice level.
• Festival Adaptations – Makar Sankranti & Pongal: This dal is often served during Makar Sankranti and Pongal festivals in India. You can add a little bit of coconut milk for a richer flavour during these celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

Toor dal is incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favourite ways to serve it:

• With steamed rice and a side of vegetable curry.
• With roti or naan bread.
• With a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of cilantro.
• Alongside Indian pickles for a tangy kick.

Storage Instructions

Leftover dal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes really well! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is Toor Dal and is it the same as Arhar Dal?

Yes, Toor Dal and Arhar Dal are the same thing! They are both split pigeon peas.

Can I use a different type of lentil in this recipe?

While you can experiment, the cooking time will vary. Red lentils (masoor dal) will cook much faster, while chana dal (split chickpeas) will take longer.

How do I adjust the spice level of this dal?

Start with a small amount of chili and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

What is Onion Masala and where can I find it?

Onion masala is a flavourful paste made from caramelized onions and spices. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores, or make your own.

Can I make this dal on the stovetop instead of in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You’ll need to cook the lentils in a pot with plenty of water for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender.