Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Lentil Dahl is not only packed with protein and fiber, but it’s also rich in flavor and spices, making it a satisfying, wholesome meal. Red lentils cook quickly, making this dish easy to prepare even on busy nights. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy, plant-based meal. The combination of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander gives the dish an aromatic depth, and the lentils absorb all these flavors as they cook, resulting in a comforting bowl of goodness.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water

  • 1 tsp turmeric powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp ground coriander

  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1/4 tsp red chili powder or paprika (optional for heat)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a zesty finish)

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Add the diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and red chili powder (if using). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the spices bloom.

  4. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add the rinsed red lentils. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

  5. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the lentils cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, use a hand blender to blend part of the dahl until smooth or mash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon.

  7. Stir in the lemon juice (if using) and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 30 minutes

  • Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Dahl: Add more chili powder or fresh chopped green chilies to increase the heat.

  • Coconut Milk: For a creamier version, replace some of the vegetable broth with coconut milk.

  • Vegetable Add-ins: You can add chopped vegetables like spinach, carrots, or potatoes for added texture and nutrition.

  • Tamarind: For a tangy twist, add a tablespoon of tamarind paste or fresh tamarind juice.

Storage/Reheating

Red Lentil Dahl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use another type of lentil in this recipe?

While red lentils are ideal for dahl, you can use yellow lentils, split peas, or green lentils as substitutes, but keep in mind that the cooking time and texture may vary.

How can I make the dahl spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more red chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chilies during the cooking process.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! For a slow cooker, add all the ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours. For the Instant Pot, use the “Pressure Cook” function for 10 minutes and allow for natural pressure release.

Is Red Lentil Dahl vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is both vegan and gluten-free. It’s a great choice for anyone on a plant-based or gluten-free diet.

Can I make Red Lentil Dahl without tomatoes?

Yes, if you prefer not to use tomatoes, you can replace the diced tomatoes with vegetable broth and a little extra spice to maintain flavor.

How do I serve Red Lentil Dahl?

Red Lentil Dahl is traditionally served with rice, but it can also be paired with naan bread, quinoa, or enjoyed on its own as a hearty stew.

Conclusion

Red Lentil Dahl is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and bursting with warming spices that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re following a vegan or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for a healthy, delicious meal, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it with rice, naan, or on its own, and savor the rich flavors of this Indian-inspired classic.

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Red Lentil Dahl

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
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Description

Red Lentil Dahl is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base. It’s a perfect vegan and gluten-free meal, packed with protein and fiber. Whether served with rice, naan, or enjoyed on its own, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp red chili powder or paprika (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a zesty finish)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Cook garlic and ginger: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add spices and tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and red chili powder (if using). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the spices bloom.
  4. Add broth and lentils: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add the rinsed red lentils. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Simmer the dahl: Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the lentils cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.
  6. Season and blend: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, use a hand blender to blend part of the dahl until smooth or mash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon.
  7. Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice (if using) and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Spicy Dahl: Add more chili powder or fresh chopped green chilies to increase the heat.Coconut Milk: For a creamier version, replace some of the vegetable broth with coconut milk.Vegetable Add-ins: You can add chopped vegetables like spinach, carrots, or potatoes for added texture and nutrition.Tamarind: For a tangy twist, add a tablespoon of tamarind paste or fresh tamarind juice.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 15g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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