12 Easy Pressure Cooker Recipes India Loves (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

10. Masoor Dal: Fast Red Lentil Curry for Busy Nights

Masoor dal—made from red split lentils—cooks faster than many other lentils and is ideal for quick, comforting meals. Rinse lentils and add water, turmeric, and halved tomatoes to the cooker, then pressure-cook for a brief period until the lentils are soft and just breaking apart. Finish with a tempering of mustard seeds, cumin, chopped garlic, and dried red chili in oil, poured over the dal for an aromatic boost. Masoor dal is naturally gluten-free and vegan; adjust the chili and acidity to suit your household. Serve with rice and a spoonful of ghee for extra richness if desired. This dal is perfect when time is short because it needs only a short pressure cycle and provides balanced nutrition—protein, fiber, and satisfying warmth—in under 30 minutes from start to finish.