Healthy & Easy Vegan Toor Dal: Pressure Cooker Indian Stew

3 weeks ago

Looking for a hearty, protein-rich, and incredibly easy vegan meal that comes together effortlessly? This pressure cooker Toor Dal (split pigeon peas) stew is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting "stay-home" meal, this healthy Indian classic delivers rich flavors and satisfying nutrition without a fuss.

Whether you're new to vegan cooking, exploring Indian cuisine, or simply need a quick and nutritious plant-based dinner, this recipe is designed for simplicity and delicious results. We’ll show you how to whip up this flavorful dal that's naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Enjoy it alongside fluffy brown rice or your favorite flatbread for a complete, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you'll need to make this simple yet flavorful Toor Dal stew:

Toor Dal (split pigeon peas) - 1 cup
Water or Vegetable Broth - 3 cups
Cooking Oil - 1 tablespoon
Mustard Seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
Cumin Seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
Turmeric Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
Garam Masala - 1 teaspoon
Himalayan Salt - to taste
Black Pepper - to taste
Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Equipment

Electric Pressure Cooker (or stovetop pressure cooker)
Small pan for tempering (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

Instructions: How to Make Easy Vegan Toor Dal in a Pressure Cooker

Follow these steps for a delicious and effortless Toor Dal:

Prepare the Dal: Rinse the Toor Dal thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any dust or impurities.
Pressure Cook the Dal: Combine the rinsed dal, water (or vegetable broth), and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder in your electric pressure cooker. Close the lid and set it to cook for 15-20 minutes on high pressure for a soft, creamy consistency. If using a stovetop pressure cooker, follow manufacturer's instructions for Toor Dal.
Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka): In a small pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add the cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Combine and Season: Pour the hot tempering mixture directly into the cooked dal in the pressure cooker. Stir well. Add the garam masala, Himalayan salt, and black pepper to taste.
Simmer (Optional): If the dal is too thick, add a little more hot water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Bring it to a gentle simmer on the "sauté" or "keep warm" setting for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped coriander, if desired. Serve hot with brown rice or your preferred side.

Tips & Variations for Your Vegan Toor Dal

Elevate your homemade Toor Dal with these simple tips and adaptations:

Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped green chilies to the tempering oil along with the mustard and cumin seeds.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely diced onions, garlic, or ginger to the tempering for a deeper aromatic base. You can also toss in chopped tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini along with the dal before pressure cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
Boost Protein: While Toor Dal is already protein-rich, consider adding crumbled firm tofu or tempeh towards the end of cooking for an even more substantial meal.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond brown rice, this dal pairs wonderfully with quinoa, roti, naan, or simply as a comforting soup on its own.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It thickens as it cools, so you might need to add a splash of water when reheating.

Images

Below are images of the delicious, protein-rich vegan Toor Dal stew.

A close-up shot of the rich, golden vegan Toor Dal stew, showcasing its creamy texture and the vibrant spices that give it its authentic Indian flavor. The delicious, protein-rich vegan Toor Dal stew served alongside fluffy brown rice, ready for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Try this incredibly easy and nutritious Toor Dal today! We love seeing your culinary adventures. Share your creations and reviews on abillion and inspire others to discover delicious plant-based meals.

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