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Red Lentil Dal

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A hearty and flavorful Indian dish made with red lentils, spices, and aromatics. This comforting dal is perfect as a main or side dish and is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1–2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until soft and mushy. Skim off any foam.
  3. While lentils are cooking, heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
  4. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  5. Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add turmeric, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for another minute.
  7. Add chopped tomato and cook until soft.
  8. Once the lentils are cooked, add the onion-tomato mixture to the pot. Stir well and simmer for another 5–10 minutes to blend flavors. Adjust salt to taste.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, rice, or naan.

Notes

  • Use ghee for a richer flavor, or oil for a vegan version.
  • Adjust spice levels according to your heat preference.
  • You can blend the dal slightly for a smoother texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: red lentil dal, Indian lentils, vegan dal, easy lentil curry, healthy dal recipe

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/red-lentil-dal/