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Chef critique

South Indian–Inspired Squash Dal

This is a cohesive, well-seasoned, and highly cookable recipe that requires only a minor formatting adjustment to the spice list.

Score: 9/10

Suggested fixes

  • Convert the bulleted list of spices in step 5 into an inline, comma-separated list.

Issues

  • low / clarity: The bulleted list in step 5 contains exactly three ingredients, but bulleted lists should be reserved for mixtures of more than three ingredients.

Strengths

  • Clear separation of preparation from active cooking, setting the home cook up for success.
  • Helpful practical advice and sensory cues, such as partially covering the pan for popping mustard seeds and adding splashes of water if the dal reduces too quickly.
  • Appropriate seasoning ratios that closely align with professional guidelines for salting vegetables and legumes.