The most comforting - and easiest dal recipe - so simple it practically cooks itself

If you're craving a comforting dish packed full of flavour that doesn't take the whole evening to make, then this Indian dish may be the perfect midweek meal for you. Bursting with different tastes and being economical and nutritious, this Indian dal lentil curry is outrageously delicious.

Dal, a staple Indian dish made by simmering lentils in a spiced and aromatic stew or soup, typically varies from region to region. It is a staple in Indian, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi cuisine, renowned for being both nourishing and affordable. It aids digestion and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.

This most basic dal recipe is perfect for those evenings where you don't have much time or are too tired to cook, and it is so simple it practically cooks itself.

Ready in under 15 minutes, this dish will warm your tummy and showcase that sometimes less is really more.

Ingredients you will need:

• 1½ cups toor dal (pigeon pea/arhar dal)

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• 1-1½ tsp salt, adjust to taste

• 2 tbsp ghee

• 1 tsp black mustard seeds

• ½ tsp hing (asafetida)

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

• 2-3 dried red chilies

• 1 sprig curry leaves

• 1 lemon, juiced

• ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped

• 6 cups water

Once you have all your ingredients you can get to work on making your dinner in six easy steps.

Firstly wash the dal thoroughly and drain. Add it to an instant pot with six cups of water and turmeric powder. Then stir.

Next secure the lid and pressure cook for 12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for the rest.

Open the lid, add salt, and whisk until smooth.

Next grab a small frying pan, heat ghee and add mustard seeds. When they splutter, add cumin seeds, hing, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 10 seconds and turn off the heat.

Set the instant pot to sauté mode. Add the tempering and mix well then simmer for one-two minutes, then cancel sauté mode.

Finally add lemon juice and cilantro and serve hot with rice.