Spiced Onion Dahl: A Mild Yet Flavorful Indian Curry
Indulging in the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Spiced Onion Dahl is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, providing nourishment that goes beyond mere sustenance. This delightful dahl, with its subtle blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, is perfect for anyone looking to savor a mild yet flavorful dish that can easily be tailored to suit your palate. Let’s embark on this culinary journey to create a dahl that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious benefits.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Curries |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories per Serving | 303 |
| Rating | 4.5 (3 Reviews) |
Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the opportunity to customize the spice levels according to your taste. Below are the necessary ingredients that will help you create this delicious dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | 6 ½ teaspoons |
| Cumin seeds | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground turmeric | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Fresh ginger root | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic | ½ clove, minced |
| Tomatoes | 1 cup, chopped |
| Onions | 2 medium, sliced |
| Red lentils | 1 cup |
| Chili pepper | 2, chopped |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup, chopped |
| Plain yogurt | ½ cup |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional benefits of your meal can enhance your dining experience. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 4.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 313.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 49.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.6 g |
| Sugars | 8.1 g |
| Protein | 18.1 g |
Instructions
Creating your Spiced Onion Dahl is a straightforward process that yields remarkable results, allowing you to enjoy an authentic Indian dish right in your kitchen.
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Prepare the Lentils: Begin by taking a pot and adding your water, followed by the yellow split peas, split white gram, yellow moong dal, and red lentils. Toss in the minced ginger and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the lentils to cook until they are soft, which will take approximately 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the lentils are cooking, heat a separate saucepan over medium heat and add your preferred cooking oil. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and watch as they begin to splutter and release their fragrant aroma. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor of your dahl. Next, add the minced garlic and chopped tomatoes, sautéing the mixture for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to blend into the oil.
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Incorporate the Spices: Now, it’s time to elevate the flavor profile. Add the remaining salt, ground turmeric, and paprika into the saucepan. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed and fragrant.
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Combine with Lentils: Once the lentils are cooked and tender, carefully pour them, along with the cooking water, into the saucepan containing the sautéed mixture. Stir well to combine everything, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Simmer to Perfection: Allow the dahl to cook for an additional 3 minutes on low heat. This step helps to integrate the flavors even further, creating a harmonious dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Garnish and Serve: Once ready, remove from heat and serve your Spiced Onion Dahl hot. For an added touch, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top and consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt to balance the spices. This dahl pairs wonderfully with your choice of naan or rice, making it a versatile meal that caters to various preferences.
Conclusion
The Spiced Onion Dahl is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. With its nourishing ingredients and the ability to adapt to your desired spice level, this dahl can be enjoyed by everyone at your table, from the spice aficionados to those who prefer milder flavors. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit.
So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of making this delightful dahl that embodies warmth, comfort, and a hint of spice!
