📝 About This Recipe
This Dal Shorba is a soul-warming Indian lentil soup that strikes the perfect balance between earthy protein and vibrant, healing spices. Traditionally served as a comforting starter or a light meal, this naturally dairy-free recipe features red lentils that break down into a velvety, cream-less puree. Infused with ginger, garlic, and a fragrant 'tadka' of cumin and mustard seeds, it offers a sophisticated depth of flavor that is both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
🥗 Ingredients
The Lentil Base
- 1.5 cups Red Lentils (Masoor Dal) (rinsed thoroughly until water runs clear)
- 6 cups Water or Vegetable Broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
Aromatic Sauté
- 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil or Neutral Oil (substitute for ghee to keep it dairy-free)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely diced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated or minced into a paste)
- 3 large Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1-2 pieces Green Chili (serrano or bird's eye, slit lengthwise)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
The Tempering (Tadka) & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (whole)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Mustard Seeds (optional but authentic)
- 2 pieces Dried Red Chilies (whole)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 piece Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Place the rinsed red lentils in a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add the 6 cups of water (or broth), turmeric, and salt.
-
2
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, skim off any white foam that rises to the surface with a spoon.
-
3
Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are completely soft and starting to dissolve.
-
4
While lentils cook, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a separate medium skillet over medium heat.
-
5
Add the diced onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and soft. Do not rush this step; the caramelization adds flavor.
-
6
Stir in the ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell of garlic disappears.
-
7
Add the ground cumin and coriander to the onion mixture. Toast for 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.
-
8
Once the lentils are done, whisk them vigorously or use an immersion blender for a few pulses to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
-
9
Stir the sautéed onion and spice mixture into the cooked lentils. Simmer together for 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
-
10
Prepare the final 'Tadka': In a small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds.
-
11
When the seeds begin to sizzle and pop, add the dried red chilies. Fry for 10 seconds until the chilies darken slightly.
-
12
Immediately pour this hot oil and spice mixture over the soup. It will sizzle—this is where the magic happens!
-
13
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and half of the cilantro.
-
14
Taste and adjust salt if necessary. If the shorba is too thick, add a splash of boiling water to reach your desired consistency.
-
15
Ladle into warm bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lemon.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always rinse your lentils until the water is no longer cloudy to ensure a clean flavor and better digestion. For a creamier texture without dairy, blend half the soup in a blender and mix it back into the pot. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drop of liquid smoke to the sautéed onions. Don't skip the lemon juice at the end; the acidity is crucial to brighten the earthy notes of the lentils. Leftovers thicken significantly in the fridge; simply thin with a little water when reheating.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm, toasted garlic naan or crispy papadums for a classic texture contrast. Pair with a side of Jeera (cumin) rice for a more filling, complete meal. A side of fresh kachumber salad (cucumber, tomato, and onion) adds a refreshing crunch. Enjoy with a glass of chilled mango juice or a dairy-free coconut milk lassi. Top with a dollop of coconut yogurt for extra richness and a cooling effect.