Instant Pot Moong Dal Recipe (Yellow Lentil Soup)

Instant Pot Moong Dal

Moong dal is a naturally vegan and gluten-free dish made from mung beans.

It’s a simple, comforting meal that’s full of flavor when you add the right spices, such as chili powder, garlic, and garam masala.

While moong dal is traditionally cooked on the stove, using an Instant Pot makes it quicker and easier to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make moong dal using an Instant Pot and explore its health benefits along the way.

Making Moong Dal At Home

Using an Instant Pot to make moong dal saves time and simplifies the cooking process. The pressure cooker method ensures the split yellow mung beans cook quickly, resulting in a flavorful and wholesome meal ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, so cleanup is a breeze.

Moong dal is naturally gluten-free and vegan when you use oil instead of ghee. It’s versatile, too—perfect for customizing with your favorite spices or additional vegetables.

Ingredients For Moong Dal

Here’s what you’ll need to make moong dal in your Instant Pot:

  • 1 cup split yellow mung beans (moong dal) – This gives the dal its distinct yellow color.
  • 1 tablespoon oil – Use your preferred cooking oil (e.g., coconut, olive, or vegetable oil) to keep it vegan.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds – A classic spice that adds a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic for a bold, aromatic base.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds a sweet, sharp flavor to balance the spices.
  • 1-2 green chilies, chopped – For heat. Adjust based on your spice preference or leave out for a milder dish.
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped – Fresh tomatoes provide a slight acidity and sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder – For color and a subtle earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala – A fragrant spice blend that gives depth to the dal.
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder – Optional for an extra kick.
  • 3 cups water – To cook the dal. Adjust the amount based on the consistency you prefer.
  • Salt to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped – For garnish, add a fresh, herbal note.

How to Make Moong Dal in an Instant Pot

Now that you have your ingredients ready follow these simple steps to make flavorful moong dal in your Instant Pot:

  1. Prepare the dal: Rinse the yellow mung beans under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set them aside.
  2. Sauté the spices: Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Once heated, add the oil and cumin seeds. Let the cumin seeds sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook the aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the pot. Stir and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
  4. Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices are fragrant.
  5. Combine the dal and water: Add the rinsed moong dal to the pot along with 3 cups of water. Stir everything well to combine.
  6. Pressure cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to SEALING, and choose the Manual/Pressure Cook (high pressure) setting. Cook for 6 minutes.
  7. Natural pressure release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. After that, manually release any remaining pressure carefully.
  8. Check consistency: Open the lid and check the dal’s consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more water and set the Instant Pot to SAUTE for a minute. If it’s too thin, let it cook down for a couple of minutes on SAUTE mode.
  9. Finish with cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your moong dal is ready to serve!

Instant Pot Moong Dal

Serving Suggestions for Moong Dal

Moong dal is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are a few suggestions:

  • With rice: Serve it over jeera rice or basmati rice for a comforting meal.
  • With bread: Pair it with Indian flatbreads like roti, naan, or paratha for a more substantial meal.
  • With salad: Enjoy it alongside a light salad for a balanced, wholesome dinner.
  • As a soup: Serve it as a simple yellow lentil soup with crusty bread for a warm, filling meal.

Storing Moong Dal

Moong dal keeps well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

  • In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding water as needed to adjust the consistency.
  • In the freezer: Moong dal freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Moong dal is an easy, nutritious meal packed with flavor, especially when made in the Instant Pot. It’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to suit your preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a warming bowl of lentil soup or a filling dinner with rice or flatbreads, moong dal is a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknights.

We hope you enjoy making this Instant Pot moong dal recipe and that it becomes a regular part of your meal rotation!

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