Go Back

Easy Instant Pot Green Moong Dal

This Easy Instant Pot Green Moong Dal is a nutritious and simply prepared dish that combines green moong dal (mung beans) with spices and seasonings for a delicious and comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks quickly in the Instant Pot and can be enjoyed with rice or flatbreads.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 People
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Spoon for stirring
  • 1 Serving bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup green moong dal (mung beans)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or ghee)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 2-3 pieces green chilies, slit (optional) Adjust based on spice preference.
  • to taste salt
  • 3 cups water
  • for garnish fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the green moong dal under running water several times until the water runs clear.
  • Set the Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode and add 2 tablespoons of oil once hot.
  • Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for another minute.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, slit green chilies, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
  • Add the rinsed moong dal and mix well with the onion-tomato-spice mixture.
  • Pour in 3 cups of water and give everything a good stir.
  • Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to 'Pressure Cook' on high for 15 minutes.
  • Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
  • Open the lid, stir the dal, and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt if necessary.
  • Stir in the garam masala and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot with rice or flatbreads.

Notes

You can adjust the thickness of the dal by altering the amount of water used. For a thicker dal, use less water.
This dish can be made mild or spicy based on your preference for green chilies.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.