Split Mung Bean Dal (Moong Dal)
Ali Segersten (author) May 11, 2025
Main Dishes Lunch Indian Freezable Recipe Instant Pot Recipe Legumes Lunchbox Recipe Meal Prep Recipe

This comforting split mung bean dal is a nourishing staple—easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and rich in plant-based protein. Cooked in the Instant Pot for convenience, the creamy mung dal is gently spiced and soothing to the digestive system. What truly elevates this dish is the aromatic tempering poured over the top. Hot oil infused with cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chilies that sizzle into the dal, adding depth, heat, and traditional South Asian flair. Serve it with basmati rice or flatbread for a grounding, healing meal.
Preparation Note
Rinse the split mung beans in a fine mesh strainer and then add them to a bowl and cover with water. Allow them to soak for 1 to 3 hours. Then drain and rinse.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons
extra virgin olive oil
1 medium
onions
chopped
2 teaspoons
finely grated
fresh ginger
2
roma tomatoes
diced
1 teaspoons
cumin seeds
1 teaspoons
turmeric powder
¾ teaspoons
garam masala
½ teaspoons
kashmiri chili powder
1½ cups
split mung beans
1½ teaspoons
sea salt
5 cups
water
½ cups
cilantro
chopped
Garnish
3 tablespoons
avocado oil
(or ghee)
1 tablespoons
cumin seeds
1½ teaspoons
black mustard seeds
5
dried Thai chili pepper
½ teaspoons
kashmiri chili powder