Whole Masoor Dal(Brown Lentils)

Whole Masoor Dal (Brown Lentils) is flavorful and simple protein rich Dal which is GLUTEN-FREE, VEGAN, ideal meal option under 30 mins, cooked in Instant Pot.

Brown Lentils is one of the most easiest and flavorful recipe that you can make on Stove -top or Instant Pot.

Sabut Masoor Dal as it is popularly known in India, is one of our family favorite. My kids love to have it with steamed rice. I usually make it for lunch but you can also have it for dinner.

Whole Masoor Dal

Whole Masoor dal or Whole Brown lentils are also known as Kadhi Masoor or Sabut Masoor. It is Red Lentils(Masoor Dal/Malka Masoor) without skin. Red Lentils are orange in color and turn yellow after cooking. They are also available as whole lentils or split lentils. Whereas the Brown Lentils as the name suggests, are brown in color, with skin and remain brown only after cooking.

Whole Masoor Dal gsst creamy and thick after cooking and as such there is no need to add milk or cream for the richness. You can make this dal with your everyday pantry ingredients and don't need any special masala/spices or longer cooking time.

Traditionally we make it in our Indian style pressure cooker, where we boil the dal separately with salt and water and then temper it with onion and tomato tadka. Now with Instant Pot it is a whole more easier to cook this dal that too in on pot. No need to make the tadka separately.

Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a great source of plant based protein for vegetarians and vegans. These are also rich in Vit. B group, potassium, magnesium, zinc and iron.

These also contain antioxidants and compounds that inhibit the growth of cancer promoting cells.

Reasons to try this Instant Pot Whole Masoor Lentils or Brown Lentils recipe

It is a ONE POT and UNDER 30 mins. recipe.

It is VEGAN and GLUTEN-FREE and so good for those on KETO DIET.

Uses MINIMUM NO. OF SPICES and basic pantry ingredients like tomato, onion.

No cream or milk or nuts are required to make it rich and creamy.

The leftovers taste even better the next day.

Add veggies like sweet potatoes, zucchini or carrots and make it's soup variation for a cold and chilly evening.

Pairs up so well with rice, quinoa or any kind of bread for a perfect filling meal.

Advantages of Cooking in Instant Pot

Instant Pot is a wonderful kitchen gadget which is of great use when it comes to fuss-free one pot cooking.

I love using my Instant Pot Ultra for making dal, soups, pasta, rice/pilaf, proofing pizza dough and many more ways..

Do you know you can ferment your Dosa/Idli batter in Instant Pot and also use it to make rich and creamy Yogurt

Usually stove top cooking we need to keep a check on the no. of whistles. While cooking in IP simply set the timer and do your other work.

Then there is no spilling of dal water on counter, which is a common problem with pressure cooker.

We can cook two things together in with Pot in Pot(PIP) method, using stackable container for Instant pot. Will cover the PIP method of how I make Dal and Rice or Dal and subzi for the meal together.

Instant Pot Recipes from the blog that I love to make

Mix Vegetable Pulao, One Pot Creamy Spinach Pasta, Gajar Ka Halwa, Whole Wheat Pizza(Instant Pot Proofed Dough)

and for many more Instant Pot recipes .. CLICK HERE

Can I make Sabut Masoor in Indian Pressure Cooker

Yes, absolutely. Majority of Indian population cooks this way. My mom still cooks dal this way. Check the recipe card for detailed steps.

Checkout more dal recipes from the blog cooked in Indian Pressure cooker

Dal Makhani, Udipi Sambhar, Dal Tadka, Lauki Chana Dal(Split Chickpeas and Bottle Gourd Dal), Maa Chane Di Dal(Punjabi style Mixed Lentils), Dal Panchratna(Rajasthani Mixed Dal)

Can I make these Lentils in Open Pot

Yes, we can make these in open pot. Choose a heavy Pot. While cooking in open pot on stovetop the cooking increases. It takes about 30 mins to cook lentils.

Also, soak the dal for a minimum 30 mins. prior to cooking. Prepare the onion tomato masala as given in recipe card under HOW TO COOK LENTILS IN INDIAN PRESSURE COOKER. Mix the masala nicely and then again cook for another 5-10 mins.

Ingredients to make Creamy Whole Masoor Dal

Whole Masoor/Brown Lentils- For the family of four I use 1 Cup Masoor Dal which we relish with steamed rice. As per your family size and portions required you can make more or lessen the lentil amount.

I soak the dal for about 10 mins. prior to cooking, this is quickens the cooking time. But you can always cook the dal without soaking also. Wash nicely 2-3 times in running clean water. Discard the water in which the dal is soaked.

Onions-I use red onions in my cooking. Keep the finely chopped onions ready before starting your cooking.

Tomatoes- Use Ripe, juicy and red tomatoes. Roma tomatoes are prefect for the recipe(for US and other countries readers). For those in India ,Desi Tomatoes or Country tomatoes or Hybrid tomatoes are good to use.

Herbs- Finely chopped Ginger, Garlic , Green Chilli(optional), Fresh Coriander/Cilantro(for garnish).

Spices- Cumin Seeds, Red chilli Powder, Garam Masala, Salt and Oil.

I prefer making the masala/tempering with Desi Ghee , for the convenience of my readers I have used Oil. You can use Desi Ghee instead of oil if there are non-vegan or don't have any high cholesterol issues.

Dal to Water Ratio

For 1 cup Dal I add 2.5-3 cups water depending on the quality of dal. This is perfect to make creamy dal which we enjoy with steamed rice.

For a more thicker version like for thick soups or casseroles you can lessen the amount of water used and use around 1.5-2 cups water.

How to cook dal to add in salads and tacos or for adding cutlets, will cover this another post.

How to Cook Whole Masoor Dal /Brown Lentils in Instant Pot

I have Instant Pot Ultra but you can also make it in which model of IP you have.

Instant Pot Sabot Masoor Dal is a very simple recipe.

Wash the dal nicely 2-3 times and soak in enough water for about 10 mins. You can cook dal directly also.

Before starting to cook, keep your ingredients ready just before starting. Finely chop the onions, tomatoes, ginger garlic and green chilli(if using).

Switch on the IP and set the SAUTE MODE on for 10 mins.

When the display shows HOT then add oil, add cumin seeds, when seeds crackle add finely ginger and garlic and sauté for 1-2 mins. or till the raw smell of garlic goes away. Instead you can use store bought ginger garlic paste also.

Next add chopped green chillies, onions and sauté till light brown.

Then add finely chopped tomatoes or you can use tomato sauce too(3 tbsp).

Cook till tomatoes are soft and mushy. Then add red chilli powder, garam masala and cook for another 2 mins.

Now drain the water from dal in which it was soaked. Add to the masala, also add water and salt. Give it a nicely mix.

Cancel the SAUTE mode and set the PRESSURE COOK Mode on HIGH for 15 mins.

Start and cook till the timer is off. Then wait for the Pressure release, do not do the Quick Pressure release.

Check the dal for consistency. Add chopped coriander/cilantro, and serve hot with steamed rice or chapatis and any subzi.

I love to drizzle some more ghee before serving. It enhances the taste of dal so much and takes it to another level, adding the aroma and making it so much delicious!!

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Rice, Jeera Rice or Quinoa pairs up so well with lentils. Serve with a bowl of plain yogurt or raita and salad of your choice(like simple kachumber salad or onions).

Brown Lentils when served with Chapatis and a dry curry make a satiating and filling meal.

Dry Indian curries or subzi that go well with sabut masoor

Aloo Gobhi(Cauliflower and Potato Subzi), Aloo Gajar Methi ki Subzi, Bhindi/Okra Stir Fry, Kurkuri bhindi/Crispy Okra, Besanwali Masala Bhindi

Flavour Variations for Whole Masoor

It is a rich and creamy dal which requires no nuts or cream for creaminess. But you can always add some cream or coconut cream for extra creaminess.

Season the cooked dal before serving with brown onions(birista) and kasuri methi. adds a royal rustic touch.

Add vegetables while pressure cooking it and season it with Mexican or Cajun seasoning. Serve it with salad or toasted bread.

How long can we store cooked Lentils

Cooked Lentils stay good for 2-3 days when refrigerated. I haven't freeze the dal but my friends tell me that it stays good for a month when stored in freezer. Divide into potions, pack in freezer friendly boxes. Thaw whenever required.

Whole lentils are one of the best lentils to include in week meal planning. You can cook a big batch and store it based on your requirement.

Recipe Card for Whole Masoor Dal/Brown Lentils(Instant Pot)

Do try this creamy Vegan and Gluten-free Lentil recipe. Ideal for lunch or dinner and you can also pack it conveniently in lunch boxes. I am sur your and your family will surely love it.

Do not forget to give your feedback and if you have any queries or questions on the recipes please do ask in the comments section.

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