How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare both the lentils and tadka a day in advance. Reheat and combine before serving.

Can I freeze this lentil stew?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

What can I substitute for red lentils?

Yellow lentils or split peas are good substitutes, although cooking times may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder to amp up the heat.

Indian Turmeric and Mustard Seed Lentil Stew

Name: Indian Turmeric and Mustard Seed Lentil Stew
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon mustard seeds; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1 large onion; 2 cloves garlic; 1-inch piece of ginger; 1 green chili; 1 medium tomato; 1 teaspoon garam masala; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

A warm and aromatic lentil stew rich with Indian spices

This hearty lentil stew combines the earthy flavors of turmeric and the subtle heat of mustard seeds, creating a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any time of the day.

1 h 15 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lentil Base

1 cup red lentils

rinsed

4 cups water

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon salt

For the Tadka (Tempering)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 large onion

finely chopped

2 cloves garlic

minced

1-inch piece of ginger

grated

1 green chili

sliced

1 medium tomato

diced

For the Final Touch

1 teaspoon garam masala

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

chopped

Preparation

Cooking the Lentils

Combine ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils, water, turmeric, and salt.

Boil and simmer

Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are soft.

Stir and skim

Stir occasionally and remove any foam that forms on the surface.

Preparing the Tadka (Tempering)

Heat oil and seeds

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds; once they start to pop, add cumin seeds.

Toast the mustard seeds until they start popping for a deeper flavor.

Sauté aromatics

Add onions and sauté until golden brown, followed by garlic, ginger, and green chili.

Do not let the garlic brown too much as it can become bitter.

Cook tomatoes

Add the diced tomato and cook until soft.

Adding a pinch of salt to the onions speeds up the caramelization process.

Cooking Process

Combine Lentils and Tadka

Pour the prepared tadka into the cooked lentils and stir well.

Simmer the Stew

Let the stew simmer for additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Finishing Touch

Stir in garam masala and lemon juice before removing from heat.

Plating & Serving