Toor Dal Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish made with toor dal (pigeon pea lentils), tempered with aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for those who follow a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic, making it suitable for offering to Krishna.

Prepared with love and devotion, Toor Dal Fry is a beloved dish among devotees and a delightful addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Toor Dal Fry can be enjoyed in various ways:
- With Rice: Serve Toor Dal Fry with plain basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
- With Bread: Pair with roti, naan, or chapati for a delightful combination.
- As a Main Dish: Serve as a main dish along with other complementary dishes for a well-rounded meal.
- With Chutney: Pair with a sweet or spicy chutney to complement the rich flavors.
These serving suggestions make for a balanced and satisfying meal, fostering a sense of community and togetherness when shared with fellow devotees.
History
Toor Dal Fry has a special place in the hearts of devotees. This recipe was developed to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that adheres to the principles of a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic. Toor Dal Fry is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, and this version, with its emphasis on purity and devotion, has become a staple in many Hare Krishna kitchens.
Bhakti Thought
Toor Dal Fry is more than just a dish; it is an expression of creativity, nourishment, and devotion. By preparing and offering this dish to Krishna, we engage in the sacred practice of bhakti, transforming the act of cooking into a spiritual journey. This dish serves as a reminder that even the simplest of ingredients, when combined with devotion and care, can create something extraordinary. Let this Toor Dal Fry inspire you to cook with a heart full of love and to see each meal as an offering to Krishna, bringing us closer to Him with every bite.
PrintToor Dal Fry
Toor Dal Fry is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich Toor Dal Fry combines wholesome ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any meal. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 – 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté and Simmer
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)
- 3/4 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- A pinch of turmeric powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 2 dried red chilies
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Toor Dal:
- Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain.
- In a pressure cooker, add the soaked toor dal and 2 cups of water. Cook for 3-4 whistles until the dal is soft and mushy. Alternatively, cook the dal in a pot until it is tender.
- Prepare the Tempering:
- In a pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add asafoetida and sauté for another minute.
- Combine and Cook:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften.
- Add turmeric powder and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Add the cooked toor dal to the pan and mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
- Offer to Krishna and serve hot with rice or bread.
Notes
- Consistency Tip: Adjust the amount of water to achieve the desired consistency for the dal.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of dried red chilies to suit your taste preferences.
- Serving Suggestion: Toor Dal Fry pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed basmati rice or warm chapatis.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg