Perfect Spinach Pappu (Spinach Dal)

Ingredients

Set 1 – For Pressure Cooking

• ¾ cup Toor Dal (washed and soaked for 2 hours)
• 6-7 Green Chilies
• 1 Large Tomato, chopped
• 3 cups Spinach, chopped
• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Oil
• 3 cups Water

Set 2 – For Tempering (Tadka)

• 3 tbsp Oil
• ½ tsp Mustard Seeds
• ½ tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 tsp Urad Dal
• 6 Garlic Cloves, sliced or crushed
• 2 Dry Red Chilies
• 2 Sprigs Curry Leaves
• ½ Medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Medium Tomato, finely chopped
• ¼ tsp Asafoetida (Hing)
• ½ tsp Tamarind Paste (optional)
• 1½ tsp Salt (adjust to taste)

Method

Step 1: Cook the Dal

1. Add all the ingredients listed under Set 1 to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and pressure cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes.
3. Once the pressure is naturally released, open the lid and mash the dal until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Tempering

1. Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal, garlic, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Add the chopped onion and tomato. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate.
4. Stir in the hing and mix well.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

1. Pour the prepared tempering into the cooked dal and mix thoroughly.
2. Add salt and tamarind paste (if using). Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed.
3. Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté Mode and simmer the dal for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with steamed rice and a drizzle of ghee for a comforting and wholesome meal.