Dal rice is a staple dish in many Indian households. It is a simple and delicious meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Making dal rice in a cooker is a convenient and time-saving method that yields excellent results. In this article, we will explore a step-by-step guide on how to make dal rice in a cooker. So, let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients within reach. For making dal rice, you will need the following:
1. 1 cup of basmati rice
2. 1/2 cup of yellow lentils (moong dal)
3. 1/2 cup of split pigeon peas (toor dal)
4. 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
5. 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
6. 2 green chilies, slit
7. 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste
8. 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
9. 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
10. 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
11. 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
12. A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
13. A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
14. Salt to taste
15. 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
16. 4 cups of water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and soak the rice and lentils
Start by rinsing the rice and lentils separately under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak them in water for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to remove any impurities and ensures that the grains and lentils cook evenly.
Step 2: Sauté the onions and spices
Heat oil or ghee in the cooker on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté them until the onions turn golden brown. Now, add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
Step 3: Add tomatoes and spices
Next, add the chopped tomatoes along with turmeric powder, garam masala, and asafoetida. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes until the tomatoes become soft and mushy. The spices will release their aroma, giving your dal rice a delicious flavor.
Step 4: Cook the rice and lentils
Drain the soaked rice and lentils and add them to the cooker. Give it a gentle stir to coat the grains and lentils with the onion and tomato mixture. Add salt to taste and pour in the water. Close the lid of the cooker and pressure cook for about 2-3 whistles. This timing may vary depending on your cooker, so adjust accordingly.
Step 5: Allow the cooker to release pressure naturally
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the cooker to release pressure naturally. This will take around 10-15 minutes. Opening the cooker too soon may result in undercooked dal rice. So, be patient and let the pressure release naturally for the best results.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid of the cooker. Give the dal rice a gentle stir and check for any remaining water. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a little hot water and adjust as per your preference.
Now, garnish the dal rice with chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant green color of coriander adds freshness and enhances the aroma of the dish. Your delicious dal rice is now ready to be served.
Tips and Variations
– You can experiment with different lentils like masoor dal (red lentils) or chana dal (split chickpeas) according to your preference.
– To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of ghee while serving the dal rice.
– For added nutrition, you can include vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. Just chop them finely and add them along with the tomatoes.
– If you prefer a milder taste, you can skip the green chilies or adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance.
– Adding a teaspoon of lemon juice at the end gives a tangy twist to your dal rice.
Conclusion
Making dal rice in a cooker is a hassle-free way to prepare a wholesome and tasty meal. With the right ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious plate of dal rice within minutes. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and nourishing recipe, give this easy dal rice recipe a try. Happy cooking!