Our Toor Dal Recipe (Arhar Dal) – Instant Pot Version

Our Punjabi-style toor dal (also known as arhar dal) is a healthy and satisfying dish, perfect for busy families looking for a quick and flavorful meal. 

This easy recipe brings together wholesome ingredients and traditional Punjabi flavors for a comforting and nourishing experience. 

Below, you’ll find the ingredient list, preparation tips, and a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dal in an Instant Pot.

Why We Think You’ll Love This Toor Dal Recipe

This recipe is ideal for families seeking a nutritious and approachable plant-based meal. 

Here’s what makes it special:

• Packed with Nutrition: Toor dal is a rich source of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome addition to any vegan meal plan. The recipe also uses only a small amount of salt and ghee, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
• Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, you can have this dal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect go-to for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Dal can be enjoyed as a main dish with rice or served as a side to a more elaborate meal.

Punjabi Cuisine and Toor Dal

Punjabi cuisine emphasizes hearty, plant-based dishes that are both filling and packed with flavor. 

Known for its use of legumes, grains, and spices, Punjabi cooking brings together the flavors of Northern India and Pakistan. 

In this toor dal recipe, we celebrate the flavors and cooking methods that make Punjabi cuisine so beloved.

Ingredients for Punjabi Style Toor Dal

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dal:

• 1 cup toor dal (yellow split pigeon peas), rinsed and soaked
• 2 ½ cups water
• 1 tbsp cooking oil (or ghee for a non-vegan option)
• 2 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 tsp grated or crushed ginger
• 1 tsp grated or crushed garlic
• 1 cup finely chopped Roma or plum tomatoes
• 1 fresh green chili, slit lengthwise (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp red chili powder (optional, for additional heat)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp amchur powder (mango powder, for tanginess)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp unsalted vegan butter (optional, omit for a lighter version)
• 2 tbsp cilantro leaves, torn, for garnish
• Salt, to taste

Step-By-Step Guide to Making Toor Dal in an Instant Pot

1. Rinse the Dal: Rinse the toor dal until the water runs clear, then soak in water while preparing the other ingredients.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the ghee. Add cloves and bay leaf, cooking briefly until aromatic.
3. Add Cumin Seeds: Let the seeds sizzle for about a minute.
4. Cook the Onion: Add diced onion and cook until softened.
5. Add Garlic and Ginger: Sauté until the aroma mellows.
6. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric, and green chili. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
7. Add the Dal and Water: Drain the soaked dal and add it to the pot with a cup of water and a pinch of salt.
8. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
9. Finish with Spices: Add garam masala, amchur powder, and butter (if using). Stir well.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Toor Dal in an Instant Pot

• Consistency Adjustments: Dal tends to thicken as it cools. If it’s too thick after cooking, stir in a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the ghee with a cooking oil or vegan ghee, and skip the butter.
• Rice Cooking Tip: To save time, use the Pot-in-Pot (PIP) method to cook basmati rice in the Instant Pot alongside your dal.
• Storage and Reheating: Toor dal keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Add water when reheating to restore its original consistency.

Serving Suggestions For Toor Dal

This toor dal pairs well with rice, especially jeera rice or peas pulao. It’s also great with a side of salad, poppadoms, and pickles for a complete meal. 

To make it even heartier, add a warm naan or roti on the side.

Final Thoughts

Our Punjabi-style toor dal is a delicious introduction to Punjabi flavors and a staple for plant-based families. 

With its simple ingredients and satisfying flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your home. 

Plus, it’s easy to customize—just adjust the spices and garnish to suit your taste. 

Enjoy this comforting dal as a quick meal or as part of a larger feast, and savor the warmth of traditional Punjabi cuisine.