Lentils (dal) are a staple in Indian households, often paired with rice and roti for lunch and dinner. Rich in protein, dal is not only healthy but also comforting, forming an essential part of the country’s
everyday diet. Whether it’s a simple weekday meal or a hearty family spread, a bowl of dal is almost always present on the table.
However, many people struggle with the mess that comes with cooking lentils in a pressure cooker. It often happens that water and foam spill out through the cooker whistle, leaving the gas stove, kitchen slab, and even the walls stained yellow.
Apart from creating extra cleaning work, it can also be frustrating when the cooker doesn’t function properly. If you too face this common problem, there’s a simple trick that can save you the trouble and keep your kitchen spotless.
The Oil Hack
When cooking dal, simply add 2–4 drops of oil to the cooker along with the lentils, water, turmeric, and salt. Also, put 3–4 drops of oil in the hole of the lid from where the whistle blows. Once placed on the flame, you’ll notice that the whistle works smoothly without the dal spilling over.
Other Tips
- Check the gasket regularly. A loose or worn-out gasket often causes improper whistle pressure, leading to leakage.
- Clean the whistle and gasket thoroughly. Blockages from dirt can force dal water to spill out.
- Avoid overfilling small cookers. Leave enough space for foam and pressure to build safely.
