Red Lentil Dal

Red Lentil Dal is a hearty, comforting dish made with red lentils and a blend of aromatic spices. A staple in Indian cuisine, this dal is both nourishing and satisfying, offering a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. It’s an ideal choice for a quick and wholesome meal that can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or as a standalone dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red Lentil Dal is beloved for its simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and cooks quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. This dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and highly adaptable based on personal preferences or what you have in your pantry. The creamy texture and spiced aroma make it a comforting favorite for all seasons.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Red lentils

• Onion

• Garlic

• Fresh ginger

• Tomato (fresh or canned)

• Ground turmeric

• Ground cumin

• Ground coriander

• Garam masala

• Chili powder (optional)

• Mustard seeds (optional)

• Curry leaves (optional)

• Vegetable oil or ghee

• Salt

• Water or vegetable broth

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Lemon or lime juice (optional, for serving)

directions

1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large pot or saucepan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add mustard seeds (if using) and let them pop. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

3. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional curry leaves. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend into the mixture.

5. Stir in turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

6. Add the rinsed lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the dal reaches your desired consistency.

7. Season with salt and adjust spices as needed. Add lemon or lime juice, if desired.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Red Lentil Dal: Add a cup of coconut milk for a creamier, richer dal.

• Spicy Dal: Increase the chili powder or add fresh chopped green chilies for extra heat.

• Vegetable Dal: Stir in spinach, kale, or chopped carrots for added nutrients.

• Tangy Dal: Add tamarind paste or extra lemon juice for a tangy kick.

• Slow Cooker Dal: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover dal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the red lentils are cooked?

Red lentils cook quickly and are done when they are soft and start to break down, forming a thick, stew-like consistency.

Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Green or brown lentils take longer to cook and won’t break down as much as red lentils.

Is Red Lentil Dal healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, and it’s naturally low in fat and calories.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Red Lentil Dal actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What can I serve with Red Lentil Dal?

It pairs well with steamed basmati rice, naan, chapati, or even quinoa for a nutritious twist.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté the onions and spices in a splash of water or broth instead of oil.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

You can substitute with a mix of ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon or cloves.

How can I thicken or thin the dal?

Simmer longer to thicken or add more water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if you adjust the spice level by omitting or reducing the chili.

Can I add protein to this dish?

While red lentils already provide protein, you can also add tofu, tempeh, or a dollop of plain yogurt (if not vegan) on top.

Conclusion

Red Lentil Dal is a versatile, nourishing dish that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients with minimal effort. Whether you are new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned home cook, this recipe offers a satisfying, healthy meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion

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