Indian Lentil Soup (Dal Shorba)

This warming and comforting soup is a staple in India. Dal (lentil) Shorba (soup) is a simple recipe that can be presented as a starter, or a main dish. It is a perfect source of protein and is a popular vegan recipe. You can also pair it with fried fish or chicken, combine with rice for breakfast, or simply eat on its own. This soup is so good and addicting!

Dal Shorba is said to have originated in Persia. It was introduced by the Arabs in different parts of Asia, including parts of India where it has become integrated into the local cuisine.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Spice Used: Turmeric

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Chana Dal (lentil) - 
• 1 cup Masoor Dal (red lentil)
• 1 full teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 whole garlic finely chopped 
• 1 tbsp mustard seed
• 2 tbsp Ghee (clarified butter or any available cooking oil)
• Salt to taste
• Water (as instructed below)

Cooking Steps:

1. In a pot, pour types of lentils and wash until the water runs clear. Wash it similar to how you would clean rice for cooking. Indian Dal looks like these:

Masoor Dal (red lentil)

Chana Dal (lentil)

2. Then add water until it rise about an inch above the lentils.
3. Let it sit for half an hour. You will notice that the seeds will hydrate and grow in size.
4. After soaking, mix in turmeric powder and then boil the lentil.
5. Once the water boils, reduce heat to medium. Gently stir for about 5 seconds, and then wait until the lentils are completely soft. 
6. Warm another pot and add ghee.
7. When the oil becomes hot, add mustard seed and wait until it starts popping. 8. Add garlic and cook until golden brown. Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
9. Lift the pot and then pour the garlic mixture into the soft lentils. Mix and taste. Add salt as necessary. 
10. Add about 1/4 cup water. You can add more if you want a thinner soup. 
11. Take out your blending wand, or you may pour the mixture into a blender. Blend until the soup is completely creamy or you can choose to have bits of lentils for a good bite when you eat it. 
12. Taste and adjust salt as necessary.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve hot over rice, or with croutons, or pita bread. Left over Dal Shorba also tastes great which is why I pour it on rice the next morning or eat on its own. It is so good and so healthy!

Alternatives to Dal: If you can't find any Indian dal, you can use green monggo. However, you will need to adjust the spice and salt level as mung beans taste less complex compared to Indian dal.

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