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Jeera Rice & Dal Tadka Dinner

Fragrant cumin-tempered basmati paired with spiced lentils — a simple, satisfying Indian weeknight dinner. Both components cook separately but come together in one bowl.

Total time
28 min
Servings
2
Calories
385
Protein
12g
Jeera Rice & Dal Tadka Dinner
comfortwholesomeindianvegetariandairy-freelentilsfluffycreamy

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear, then drain.

  2. Step 2

    Heat 1 tbsp oil in a medium pot over medium-high. Add cumin seeds; let them sizzle and darken, ~45 seconds.

  3. Step 3

    Add rinsed rice and stir until it looks glossy and coated, about 2 minutes. Pour in 2 cups water and a pinch of salt.

  4. Step 4

    Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer 12 minutes until rice is tender and water absorbs.

  5. Step 5

    While rice cooks, heat 1 tbsp oil in a second skillet. Add diced onion; cook 3 minutes until softened.

  6. Step 6

    Add ginger-garlic paste and chili powder; stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add diced tomato and red lentils.

  7. Step 7

    Pour in 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 12 minutes until lentils break down.

  8. Step 8

    Serve jeera rice alongside the dal tadka, spooning the lentils over or mixing together in one bowl.

Tools you’ll need

  • medium pot with lid
  • medium skillet
  • wooden spoon
  • fine-mesh sieve

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