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Masoor Dal is a classic Indian comfort food made from red lentils simmered with spices until perfectly creamy and flavorful. It’s incredibly nutritious, filling, and best of all, you can whip it up for under $3!
🍲 Why You’ll Love Masoor Dal
- Ridiculously Cheap: Costs less than a fast food meal!
- Packed with Protein: Lentils are a fantastic, affordable protein source.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, with naan, or as a soup.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Want to learn more about the nutritional benefits of lentils? Check out this helpful guide from Healthline.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4, Cost: $2.80)
- 1 cup red lentils (Masoor Dal) ($0.80)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped ($0.20)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.10)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds ($0.10)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder ($0.10)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala ($0.15)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional) ($0.10)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (Negligible)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ($0.15)
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth (Negligible)
- Cilantro for garnish (optional) ($0.20)
Wondering where to buy spices cheap? Check out Spice Jungle for affordable options.
👩🍳 How to Make Masoor Dal (Step-by-Step)
- Rinse the Lentils: Thoroughly rinse the red lentils until the water runs clear.
- Cook the Spices: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and sauté until they crackle.
- Add Aromatics: Add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions turn golden brown.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
- Simmer the Dal: Add lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are soft and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Looking for perfect rice to pair with your dal? Bon Appétit’s Guide to Cooking Rice will help you master it.
📊 Cost Breakdown (Table)
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| Red Lentils | $0.80 |
| Onion | $0.20 |
| Garlic | $0.10 |
| Cumin Seeds | $0.10 |
| Turmeric Powder | $0.10 |
| Garam Masala | $0.15 |
| Red Chili Powder | $0.10 |
| Vegetable Oil | $0.15 |
| Cilantro | $0.20 |
| Total Cost | $2.80 |
🌟 Tips for Making Perfect Masoor Dal
- Add more water if you prefer a soupier consistency.
- Skip the chili powder if you prefer it mild.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
For authentic Indian cooking tips, visit Serious Eats.
📖 More Budget-Friendly Recipes You’ll Love
- 5-Minute Budget Hacks for Busy Moms
- 15 Easy Ways to Save Money on Groceries Without Sacrificing Quality
- The $50 Grocery Challenge: Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?
📌 Final Thoughts
Masoor Dal is the perfect comfort food for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank. With its rich, savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your budget-friendly cooking arsenal.
Craving more affordable recipes? Stay tuned for more on KateFi.com!
