RED LENTIL DHAL
Red Lentil Dhal is a traditional Indian dish known for its comforting warmth and rich aromatic flavours. Made with split red lentils, this dish is simmered with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander and turmeric, to create a hearty and nutritious meal. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. The simplicity of its ingredients and preparation makes it a staple in many households, offering both convenience and depth of flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Indian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
One-Pot Wonders, Sauté, Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Ramadan
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Wheat/Gluten-Free, High Fibre, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients required for Red Lentil Dhal are listed below:
- ½ cup red lentils
- 1 cup water
- ½ onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp olive oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 416.1 kcal
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Carbohydrate: 69.2 g
- Sugar: 4.7 g
- Sodium: 20.6 mg
- Fiber: 12.1 g
- Protein: 24.9 g
- Calcium: 78 mg
- Iron: 7.7 mg
- Potassium: 799.1 mg
PREPARATION
- Rinse The Red Lentils: Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add Onion: Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Other Ingredients: Stir in minced garlic, cumin, turmeric and ground coriander. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Some Water: Add the rinsed lentils and water to the saucepan. Stir it to combine.
- Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer it uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the dhal has thickened.
- Add Some Salt: Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice or naan.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20 minutes
TIPS
These tips can make your Red Lentil Dhal even tastier:
- For Creamier Dhal: For a creamier texture, use a whisk to gently mash the lentils after cooking.
- Add Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to enhance the flavours.
- For Richness: For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Serve with a side of steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Boost: Add cubed tofu or tempeh for additional protein.
- Vegetable Addition: Add diced tomatoes or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding fresh chillies or chilli powder.
- Creaminess: Stir in a spoonful of almond or cashew butter for a creamier consistency.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed.