Instant Pot Red Lentils Broccoli (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 tbsp coconut oil
02 - 2 tbsp cumin seeds
03 - ½ tsp asafoetida
04 - 2 green chilies, finely chopped
05 - 1 tbsp garlic, finely chopped
06 - 1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped
07 - 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
08 - 12-15 broccoli florets
09 - ½ cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
10 - ½ tsp turmeric powder
11 - 1.5 tsp salt
12 - 3 cups water
13 - ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and drain excess water. Cut broccoli into small florets and wash them well.
02 - Set Instant Pot to sauté mode. When display shows "HOT", add coconut oil. Once oil is hot, add cumin seeds and asafoetida, sautéing for 30 seconds until seeds sizzle.
03 - Add chopped green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add chopped red onion and cook until soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
05 - Add broccoli florets and stir well to combine with aromatics.
06 - Add red lentils, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat lentils with spices.
07 - Pour in 3 cups of water and mix well, ensuring to scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot.
08 - Cancel sauté mode, secure Instant Pot lid ensuring vent is in sealing position. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
09 - Allow pressure to release naturally completely before opening lid.
10 - Set Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Add chopped cilantro and mash the lentils partially with the back of a ladle or potato masher.
11 - Let the dal simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly, then press cancel.
12 - Serve hot masoor dal tadka with broccoli alongside steamed rice or Indian flatbread.

# Notes:

01 - This vibrant red lentil dish combines the protein-rich masoor dal with nutritious broccoli for a complete meal. The tempering (tadka) of spices adds depth and complexity.
02 - No soaking is required for red lentils as they cook quickly.