Rustic and creamy Dhaba style Whole Masoor Dal

There's nothing like the comfort of a steaming bowl of dal-chawal on a chilly winter day. The aroma, the warmth, the first spoonful of this simple meal further brings warmth to the body. This Dhaba-Style Whole Masoor Dal or Akkha Masoor Dal recipe itself provides a hearty meal when you need something filling. The whole brown lentil curry further satisfies your craving for soulful food.

I still call this lenti as "kabutar waali dal" or "pigeon lentil" as the local grocery stores in India would feed these to pigeons. Life itself comes full circle in a funny way and today, this same simple dal has earned a special place in my kitchen, sitting right next to my beloved Dal Makhani. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, this dal tastes like something straight from a roadside dhaba. It's a smoky, creamy, delicacy that it is so comforting that you'll want seconds (and thirds!).

• 1 cup Whole masoor dal
• 1 Small onion - finely chopped
• 1 Small tomato - finely chopped
• Salt - to taste
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 2.5 cup Water for cooking

• 1 tablespoon Ghee or oil
• ¼ teaspoon Asafoetida / hing
• 2 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 4 Whole black pepper
• 1 Bay leaf - 1 small
• 4 Garlic cloves finely chopped
• 2 Green chilies finely chopped
• 2 Whole dry red chilies
• 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
• Curry leaves - a few optional
• Fresh cilantro - for garnish