Red Lentil Dahl Recipe
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 200g |
| Split red lentils | 200g |
| Water | 200g |
| Coconut milk | 200g |
| Tomato puree | 100g |
| White onions | ½ |
| Fresh ginger | 20g |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground turmeric | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 pinch |
| Chili powder | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Lentils: Begin by boiling the red lentils in a large pot with plenty of water. Cook according to the package instructions. Once the lentils are tender, drain them and set them aside.
-
Prepare the Aromatics: While the lentils are cooking, finely chop the onion and ginger. Set them aside.
-
Sauté the Onion: Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan or casserole. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
-
Add the Tomato Puree and Coconut Milk: Once the onion is softened, stir in the tomato puree and coconut milk, mixing well.
-
Season the Dahl: Add the turmeric, cumin seeds, garlic powder, and garam masala to the saucepan. Stir to combine and allow the spices to toast slightly, releasing their aromatic oils.
-
Combine Lentils with Spices: Add the cooked red lentils to the saucepan, followed by the water. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
-
Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the dahl simmer on low for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are creamy and have absorbed the flavors of the spices. If the mixture thickens too much, you can add a bit more water or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
-
Prepare the Rice: While the dahl is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the basmati rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the rice.
-
Serve: Once the lentils are creamy and tender, your red lentil dahl is ready to serve. Plate the dahl alongside the freshly cooked basmati rice for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Enjoy your homemade, aromatic Red Lentil Dahl with basmati rice, perfect for a comforting and flavorful dinner. This dish brings together the goodness of legumes and the richness of coconut milk, seasoned with warming spices for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
This recipe provides a balanced, flavorful, and nutritious meal with the earthiness of lentils paired with the aromatic notes of cumin, garam masala, and turmeric. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or to impress guests with a vegetarian dish that is rich in flavors and textures.
