RED LENTIL DAHL
Red lentils Dahl is a hearty, tasty, soothing and nutritious dish. The red lentils cook to a creamy consistency and absorb the aromatic spices of turmeric, cumin and garlic, all balanced with the warmth of onions. This dish is simple yet deeply satisfying, simmered in water until the lentils are tender and flavorful. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner. This vegan and gluten-free meal is rich in protein and fibre, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking for a nutritious and aromatic plant-based meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Indian, South Asian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, Boil, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight Dinner, Ramadan, Fall, Winter, Family Reunion, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Vegan, High Fibre, Low Fat, Gluten-Free, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Soup/Stew, Curry, Bowl
INGREDIENTS OF RED LENTIL DAHL
There are the following ingredients for Red lentils Dahl:
- 50g red lentils
- 1/4 onion, chopped
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 200ml water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fibre: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 3g
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Red lentils Dahl:
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat 1 tsp of oil (optional) in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This builds the aromatic base of the dish.
- Add spices: Stir in the turmeric and cumin. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavour.
- Add lentils and water: Add the red lentils and 200ml of water. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a boil. Lentils absorb the flavours of the spices and soften into a creamy consistency as they cook.
- Simmer the Dahl: Reduce the heat to low and let the lentils simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the water is absorbed. Add more water if needed for a thinner consistency.
- Season and serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Dahl warm, garnished with fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavour.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20 minutes
TIPS
Here are some tips for the preparation of Red lentils Dahl:
- Rinse the lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any dust and help them cook evenly.
- Boost the flavour: Add a pinch of chilli powder or fresh ginger to enhance the spiciness of the dish. You can also sauté the onions in coconut oil for a richer taste.
- Consistency control: If you prefer a thicker dahl, simmer longer and allow more water to evaporate. For a soupier texture, add more water during cooking.
VARIATIONS
- Add vegetables: Incorporate diced tomatoes, spinach, or carrots to make the dish more filling and colourful. Spinach adds a nice pop of green and additional nutrients.
- Change the protein: For a protein boost, stir in chickpeas or tofu towards the end of cooking.
- Coconut twist: Replace water with coconut milk for a richer, creamier dahl, adding a sweet, tropical note to the dish.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge storage: Store leftover Dahl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Dahl freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if needed.