All Recipes
Chef Priya
Priya's Kitchen Notes

Easy recipes, bold spices, and stories from my family kitchen.

Starter Guide To Indian Flavor

Quick Red Lentil Curry with Tomato & Onion

Masoor Dal

(41 reviews)
"

This is what I make when there's no time, but I still want something warm, filling, and nourishing. It's fast, flexible, and always hits the spot.

"
Quick Red Lentil Curry with Tomato & Onion
Prep time:10 mins
Cook time:25 mins
Total time:35 mins

Protein

12g

Carbs

32g

Fat

10g

Calories

270 kcal

Servings:
4
VegetarianDairy FreeGluten Free

Ingredients

red lentils (masoor dal)1 cup
(rinsed well)
water3 cups
onion1 small
(finely chopped)
tomato1 large
(chopped)
garlic3 cloves
(minced)
fresh ginger1 tsp
(grated)
green chili1
(optional, slit)
oil2 tbsp
saltto taste
fresh cilantrofor garnish

Spices

cumin seeds1 tsp
ground turmeric0.50 tsp
ground coriander1 tsp
red chili powder0.50 tsp
garam masala1 tsp

Directions

Cook the Dal

  1. In a pot, combine red lentils, turmeric, salt, and water.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the lentils are soft and starting to break down.
  3. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam if needed.
Chef's tip: Red lentils cook quickly—no soaking needed, but rinsing is important to remove any dust.

Prepare the Masala

  1. While the lentils cook, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
  3. Add onions and sauté until soft and lightly golden.
  4. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add coriander, chili powder, and chopped tomato. Cook until tomatoes break down and the masala thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

  1. Pour the cooked masala into the dal and mix well.
  2. Simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Sprinkle in garam masala and stir. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.

How did you like this recipe?

Click to rate

Collection of Indian Spice Blends

My Go-To Spice Blends

These are the five homemade spice blends I reach for again and again. Check out my free list of cherished family recipes that will bring bold, authentic flavor to your cooking.

More Indian Flavor

Golden Potato & Cauliflower Stir Fry

Golden Potato & Cauliflower Stir Fry

Aloo Gobi

A dry-style sabzi with golden potatoes, tender cauliflower, and warm spices—a weeknight favorite in every Indian household.

40 mins
Main CoursePan-Indian
Smoky Yellow Lentils with Spiced Ghee Tadka

Smoky Yellow Lentils with Spiced Ghee Tadka

Dal Tadka

A comforting bowl of yellow lentils simmered until creamy and topped with a sizzling spiced ghee tempering.

45 mins
Main CoursePan-Indian
Tangy Spiced Chickpeas with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Tangy Spiced Chickpeas with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Chana Masala

A hearty, tangy, and deeply spiced chickpea curry that comes together with a few pantry staples.

45 mins
Main CourseNorth Indian

Behind the Recipe

Chef Priya in her kitchen

Hi! I'm Priya. I grew up in Delhi in a tiny kitchen filled with noise, spices, and stories. I learned to cook the way most of us do—by watching, tasting, and eventually doing. My mother never measured anything, but somehow every dish was perfect.

After I moved to the U.S., I found myself cooking the same dishes to feel close to home. Friends would ask for recipes, and I realized how unfamiliar Indian cooking still felt to many people here. That's what led me to start sharing—not just the food, but the how and why behind each step.

These recipes are rooted in tradition but shaped by life abroad. I try to keep things practical without losing what makes them special. If you've ever wanted to bring more Indian flavor into your kitchen, I hope this is a good place to start.