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
- 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.
- Cook garlic and ginger: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
