Dal, in all its everyday possibilities

Dal has a way of making a meal feel complete. There is no single right recipe: the best version is often the one that suits your taste, your time and what is already in your kitchen.

Start with the ingredient Rinse your dal before cooking and follow the pack’s preparation guidance. Different dals need different cooking times, so check tenderness rather than relying only on the clock.

Build flavour your way A tempering of cumin, garlic or curry leaves can change the character of a bowl. Add spices gradually and taste as you go. A squeeze of lemon at the end brings a fresh note.

Make it a meal Serve with rice, roti or a seasonal vegetable. Leftover cooked dal can be refrigerated promptly and reheated thoroughly; follow food-safety guidance and avoid keeping it at room temperature.