Ask Ayurveda

FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Nutrition
Question #6007
246 days ago
255

Dal Ka Soup - #6007

Claire

Recently, I’ve been trying to eat lighter meals in the evening, and someone suggested I try dal ka soup for dinner. It sounds healthy and filling, but I’m not sure how to make it in a way that’s easy to digest and also tasty. Does anyone have experience with making dal ka soup, especially for someone with sensitive digestion? I often feel bloated after dinner, so I want to know if dal ka soup is good for reducing bloating or improving digestion. Are there specific types of dal that work best for soup? I’ve heard that moong dal is light on the stomach, but I’m not sure if it’s the only option. Can masoor dal or toor dal also be used for dal ka soup? I’m also wondering about the spices to use. I’ve read that turmeric, cumin, and ginger are good for digestion, but I don’t know how much to add without overpowering the taste. For someone trying to eat healthier, is dal ka soup a good substitute for heavier meals? Lastly, does dal ka soup have any other benefits besides being easy to digest? I’ve heard it’s good for weight loss and boosting immunity. Is that true? If you have a favorite recipe or tips to make it more nutritious, please share.

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dal ka soup can be an excellent choice for a light, easy-to-digest dinner, especially if you’re looking to avoid bloating. It’s nutritious, filling, and customizable for sensitive digestion. Here’s a guide to help you make a delicious and easily digestible dal soup:

1. Best Types of Dal for Soup: Moong Dal: Moong dal (split yellow lentils) is one of the best options for easy digestion. It’s light, low in fiber, and gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for those with sensitive digestion. Masoor Dal: Red lentils (masoor dal) can also work well for soup, as they cook quickly and are relatively easy to digest, though they can be slightly heavier than moong dal. Toor Dal: While toor dal (pigeon pea) is nutritious and commonly used in Indian soups, it can be a little tougher to digest for some people, especially those with bloating issues. It’s better suited for stronger digestion. 2. Spices for Digestion: Turmeric: A pinch of turmeric adds anti-inflammatory benefits and aids digestion without overwhelming the taste. Cumin: Cumin (jeera) is great for digestion and can help reduce bloating. You can add cumin seeds while tempering the dal or use ground cumin for a milder flavor. Ginger: Fresh ginger is excellent for digestion and can help prevent bloating. A small amount (about 1/2 inch piece) is enough to enhance the flavor and digestive benefits. Black Pepper: A little black pepper can complement the spices and further aid in digestion. 3. Making the Soup Easy to Digest: Soak the Dal: Soaking the dal for a few hours before cooking can make it easier to digest and cook faster. Cook Well: Make sure to cook the dal thoroughly until it’s soft and mushy. This makes it lighter and easier on the stomach. Use Ghee: You can temper the soup with a little ghee, which is good for digestion and adds a rich flavor. Ghee helps to lubricate the digestive system. 4. Flavoring and Adjusting Spices: Start with small amounts of turmeric (1/4 teaspoon), cumin (1/2 teaspoon), and ginger (1/2 teaspoon), and adjust based on your taste. Avoid making it too spicy or strong for a soothing, digestible soup. Add a pinch of salt and optionally, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to enhance the flavor. 5. Additional Benefits: Weight Loss: Dal soup is high in protein and fiber, helping with satiety, making it a great choice for weight management. Immunity: The spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger have immune-boosting properties, while the dal provides essential vitamins and minerals. Gut Health: The fiber in dal aids digestion and promotes gut health. Adding spices like cumin and ginger further supports digestion and can help alleviate bloating. 6. Sample Recipe: Ingredients: 1/2 cup moong dal 1/4 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 1-inch ginger, grated Salt to taste 1/2 tsp ghee Lemon juice (optional) Instructions: Rinse the moong dal and soak it for an hour. In a pot, add the dal, turmeric, and 3 cups of water. Cook until the dal is soft. In a pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add grated ginger and sauté for a minute. Pour this tempering into the cooked dal. Add salt to taste and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Add lemon juice for extra zest and serve warm.

11913 answered questions
78% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Hey there, dal ka soup is definitely a great lighter meal option, especially for the evening. If you’re dealing with bloating, it can be a soothing choice. Moong dal is indeed well-known for being easy on the stomach and quite digestible, making it an ideal pick for sensitive digestion. But hey, that doesn’t mean masoor dal and toor dal can’t join the party— they’re pretty great too! Just give em’ a soak for a few hours to make em’ softer and easier to digest, helps with the bloating thing too.

Now, when it comes to spices, you’ve got some awesome choices. Turmeric is like this super spice that’s anti-inflammatory and great for digestion. Throw in around a 1/2 teaspoon. You don’t need to drown your soup in cumin and ginger, but a 1/2 teaspoon of cumin and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ginger should work nicely. It’s a good idea to temper these spices in a bit of ghee before adding them to the soup— it releases their flavors without overwhelming the soup.

As for making the soup nutritious, toss in some finely chopped veggies like carrots, spinach, or zucchini—they add not only nutrition but also a slight crunch and color. It’s an excellent swap for heavier meals because it’s both nourishing and lighter on your system. It’s filling enough without being heavy, perfect after long days.

And about weight loss and immunity— dal brings in good protein, and the spices boost metabolism and keep your immune system humming. If you’re keen on a basic recipe: just boil soaked dal with turmeric and your favored veggies. Finish off with a tempering of ghee, mustard seeds, a pinch of asafoetida, and finally the cumin and ginger. Salt to taste as it suits you.

Remember, some days our digestion might just need less—so always listen to your body. Dal ka soup’s definitely a comforting meal opener towards a lighter, healthier lifestyle, and might just be what you need on those bloated evenings!

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Khushboo
I am someone who kinda started out in both worlds—Ayurveda and allopathy—and that mix really shaped how I see health today. My clinical journey began with 6 months of hands-on allopathic exposure at District Hospital Sitapur. Honestly, that place was intense. Fast-paced, high patient flow, constant cases of chronic and acute illnesses coming through. That taught me a lot about how to see disease. Not just treat it, but like… notice the patterns, get better at real-time diagnosis, really listen to what the patient isn’t saying out loud sometimes. It gave me this sharper sense of clinical grounding which I think still stays with me. Then I moved more deeply into Ayurveda and spent another 6 months diving into clinical training focused on Panchakarma therapies. Stuff like Abhyanga, Basti, Shirodhara—learned those not just as a list of techniques, but how and when to use 'em, especially for detox and deep healing. Every case felt like a different puzzle. There wasn’t always one right answer, you know? And that’s where I found I loved adapting protocols based on what the person actually needed, not just what the textbook says. Alongside that, I got certified in Garbha Sanskar through structured training. That really pulled me closer to maternal health. Pregnancy support through Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs or massage, it’s like this entire way of guiding a mother-to-be toward nourishing the baby right from conception—emotionally, physically, all of it. That part stuck with me hard. My overall approach? It’s kinda fluid. I believe in balancing natural therapies and evidence-based thinking. Whether it's seasonal imbalance, hormonal issues, Panchakarma detox plans, or just guiding someone on long-term wellness—I like making people feel safe, heard, and actually understood. I’m not into rushing plans or masking symptoms. I’d rather work together with someone to build something sustainable that really suits their body and where they’re at. In a way, I’m still learning every day. But my focus stays the same—use Ayurvedic wisdom practically, compassionately, and in a way that just... makes sense in real life.
5
55 reviews
Dr. Kirankumari Rathod
I have completed My graduation and post graduation from Government Ayurveda medical College and hospital Bangalore. Soon after completion of my post graduation I have worked as assistant professor and consultant in department of Panchakarma in private Ayurveda college. I have 6yrs of experience in treating patients and practicing panchakarma currently i am working as Associate professor and consultant in department of Panchakarma in private Ayurveda college. Along with this I am persuing my Phd in specialization with female Infertility.
5
8 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
265 reviews
Dr. Prasad Pentakota
I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I have accumulated over 20 years of experience working across multiple medical specialties, including General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, and Cardiology. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to diagnose and manage a wide range of health conditions, helping patients navigate both acute and chronic medical challenges. My exposure to these diverse fields has given me a comprehensive understanding of the human body and its interconnected systems. Whether it is managing general medical conditions, neurological disorders, skin diseases, or heart-related issues, I approach every case with careful attention to detail and evidence-based practices. I believe in providing accurate diagnosis, patient education, and treatment that is both effective and tailored to the individual’s specific needs. I place great emphasis on patient-centered care, where listening, understanding, and clear communication play a vital role. Over the years, I have seen how combining clinical knowledge with empathy can significantly improve treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. With two decades of continuous learning and hands-on experience, I am committed to staying updated with the latest medical advancements and integrating them into my daily practice. My goal has always been to deliver high-quality, ethical, and compassionate medical care that addresses not just the illness but the overall well-being of my patients.
5
267 reviews
Dr. Karthika
I am currently a PG second-year student in the Shalakya Tantra department at Parul Institute of Ayurveda and Research (2024 batch). I completed my UG and immediately joined PG in a regular batch. I secured the university second rank in Pondicherry University (CCRAS syllabus) at Rajiv Gandhi Ayurveda Medical College (2017 batch). With exposure to both modern and Ayurvedic knowledge of all eye diseases, I am also skilled in cornea and cataract surgeries. During my deputation in the second year of PG, I was trained to handle 200+ patients in 1-2 hours. I secured a distinction in my first-year PG with 82%, achieving department first and university first at Parul Institute of Ayurveda and Research, Vadodara, Gujarat.
5
125 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Narendrakumar V Mishra
I have been practicing as a Consulting Ayurvedic Physician since 1990, with over three decades of clinical experience in treating a wide range of chronic and lifestyle-related health conditions. My core areas of focus include hair disorders, skin diseases, and lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, arthritis, and stress-related imbalances. Over the years, I have developed a patient-centric approach that emphasizes deep-rooted healing through authentic Ayurvedic principles. My treatment philosophy is based on understanding the unique constitution (prakriti) and imbalance (vikriti) of each patient, allowing me to craft individualized care plans using classical formulations, diet corrections, detox therapies (shodhana), and lifestyle modifications. Whether it’s persistent hair fall, recurring skin allergies, or long-term metabolic disorders, I aim to address the root cause rather than just suppress symptoms. In the management of lifestyle disorders like diabetes and arthritis, I integrate Ayurvedic medicines with structured dinacharya (daily routines) and ahar (dietary guidance), focusing on sustainable results and long-term wellness. I also work extensively with stress-related concerns, offering holistic strategies that incorporate mind-body practices, including meditation, herbal support, and counseling rooted in Ayurveda. With a strong foundation in traditional Ayurvedic texts and decades of hands-on experience, I remain committed to providing safe, natural, and effective healthcare solutions. My goal is to guide patients toward a balanced life, free from chronic ailments, through personalized treatment protocols that restore harmony to both body and mind.
5
355 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
40 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni
I am Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni, an Ayurvedic physician and diet consultant with over 15 years of experience, specializing in holistic healing, Ayurvedic nutrition, and personalized wellness programs. My expertise lies in integrating traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern dietary science, offering effective, natural, and sustainable health solutions to patients worldwide. I lead a globally recognized online Ayurvedic diet program, which has been successfully followed by clients in 100+ cities across the world. With a 95% success rate, this program is designed to be easy to follow, result-oriented, and customized for individual health needs, addressing concerns such as weight management, metabolic disorders, digestive health, and lifestyle-related conditions. Additionally, I provide Panchakarma therapy through home visits, ensuring that patients receive authentic Kerala-based detoxification treatments from expert therapists in the comfort of their homes. My approach focuses on restoring balance, enhancing vitality, and promoting overall well-being through natural healing techniques, herbal medicine, and tailored Ayurvedic lifestyle modifications. My mission is to empower individuals with accessible, effective, and personalized Ayurvedic healthcare, helping them achieve optimal health and long-term wellness with scientifically-backed traditional treatments.
5
6 reviews
Dr. Ayush Bansal
I am a dedicated Ayurveda practitioner with 1 year of hands-on clinical experience, committed to providing effective and holistic healthcare solutions. I began my professional journey as a VOPD (Virtual Outpatient Department) doctor at Hiims Hospital under Jeena Sikho Lifecare Limited, where I served for 6 months. During this time, I gained valuable experience in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning while managing a variety of acute and chronic health conditions through Ayurvedic principles. My role involved virtual consultations, customized treatment protocols, and continuous patient follow-ups, allowing me to sharpen my diagnostic and counseling skills in both preventive and curative aspects of Ayurveda. Following this, I worked as a Resident Doctor at Chauhan Ayurved and Panchkarma Hospital, Udaipur, where I further strengthened my clinical expertise. Here, I was actively involved in the management of patients undergoing traditional Panchakarma therapies, Ayurvedic detoxification procedures, and personalized treatment regimens. My responsibilities included in-depth patient consultations, planning and executing Panchakarma therapies, and collaborating closely with senior Ayurvedic consultants to ensure safe and effective patient care. This role enhanced my understanding of classical Ayurvedic therapies, lifestyle modifications, and integrative approaches tailored to individual patient needs. With experience in both OPD and Panchakarma settings, I approach each patient with empathy, attentiveness, and a commitment to delivering authentic Ayurvedic care. My goal is to help patients achieve long-term wellness through natural healing methods rooted in traditional Ayurvedic knowledge.
5
134 reviews

Latest reviews

Dylan
9 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!
Anna
9 hours ago
Thanks for the advice! Really appreciated the clarity in your response. Fingers crossed this new approach brings some relief!
Thanks for the advice! Really appreciated the clarity in your response. Fingers crossed this new approach brings some relief!
Wyatt
9 hours ago
Thanks doc! Your questions really made me realize I should check my diet n habits. It's given me a clearer path to find relief. 😊
Thanks doc! Your questions really made me realize I should check my diet n habits. It's given me a clearer path to find relief. 😊
Ella
9 hours ago
Thanks so much for the advice, it really put my mind at ease. Loved the simple tips & the detailed steps on managing this issue!
Thanks so much for the advice, it really put my mind at ease. Loved the simple tips & the detailed steps on managing this issue!