Simple Dal Curry Without Onion

This quick dal curry is one of those dependable home dishes our grandmothers made on rushed mornings or unexpected days. With no onions to chop and no time to grind masala, this curry comes together with basic pantry ingredients and gentle spices. It is light, comforting, and pairs well with almost any meal.

Why This Dal Curry Was Made Often at Home

In traditional kitchens, simple dal curries like this were prepared when time was short or when the stomach needed something light. Everything goes straight into the cooker, making it an easy and reliable dish for everyday cooking.

This curry: Requires minimal preparation Uses basic spices, Cooks quickly, Works as a side dish for many meals

Ingredients

Dal – 1 cup
Chilli powder – 1 to 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
Pepper powder – 1 teaspoon
Cloves – 1 or 2
Cinnamon – 1 small piece
Curry leaves or coriander leaves – 5 or more
Ghee – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Water – as needed

How to Make Simple Dal Curry

Wash the dal well and place it in a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cook the dal until soft. Pressure cook for 2 to 3 whistles and allow the pressure to settle naturally. Open the cooker and add chilli powder, turmeric powder, pepper powder, cloves, cinnamon, salt, and curry leaves or coriander leaves. Add sufficient water to bring the curry to a thick, flowing consistency. Place the cooker back on the stove and boil everything together for a few minutes until the flavours blend well. Add ghee, mix gently, and turn off the stove.

If you prefer, coconut oil can be used instead of ghee.

What to Serve With

This simple dal curry goes well with: Chapati, Bread, Rice, Roti, Dosa
Idli and Appam

Grandma’s Kitchen Notes

✔ No onions or grinding needed
✔ Ready in 5 to 10 minutes
✔ Adjust spice levels easily
✔ Light and comforting

A Simple Everyday Comfort Dish

This dal curry proves that good food does not need complicated steps. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, it brings warmth and nourishment to the table—just the way grandma liked it.