Savory Garlicky Lentil Delight

Garlicky Dal (Savory Lentils)

🍲 Recipe Overview:

• Name: Garlicky Dal (Savory Lentils)
• Author: Kusum Gupta, from “Recipes with a Spice – Indian Cuisine for Balanced Nutrition”
• Category: Lentil
• Cuisine: Indian
• Keywords: Beans, Asian, Indian, Vegan, Savory, < 4 Hours, Inexpensive
• Rating: 5 Stars
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 87.4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped tomato
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1/4 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 green chili pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare Lentils:

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   • Pick over the dry dal to remove any grit. Rinse a couple of times under cold water and drain.
   • In a 2-quart saucepan, bring about 3 cups of water to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed dal to the boiling water.
   • Stir in salt and turmeric powder.
   • Be cautious as water may boil over; adjust heat to medium. Partially cover and simmer until dal is tender, about 30 to 45 minutes.
   • Adjust consistency by adding hot water as needed.

2. Sauté Seasonings:

   • Heat oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
   • Add cumin seeds; sauté until they change color, just a few seconds.
   • Add garlic and onions; stir-fry until onions are golden brown. Add a sprinkle of water if needed to prevent sticking.
   • Stir in ginger, coriander powder, red chili powder, and green chili pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes.
   • Add chopped tomatoes; cook for another minute.

3. Combine and Finish:

   • Mix the sautéed seasonings into the cooked dal.
   • Continue cooking over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes until dal thickens to desired consistency.
   • Stir in garam masala.

4. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.
   • Optionally, sprinkle with lemon juice before serving.

Variations:

• Variation 1: Use brown lentils, peeled yellow Mung, peeled light yellow Urad, or split dark yellow Toor. Adjust water and cooking time accordingly.
• Variation 2: Use whole green Mung, whole black Urad, whole dark brown Masoor, whole yellow brownish Toor, or split yellow Chana. These require longer cooking times and more water.
• Healthy Alternative: Add vegetable stock or Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) for added nutrition and texture.

Additional Tips:

• Dal can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.
• Experiment with different lentil combinations for varied flavors and textures.
• Adjust spice levels according to personal preference.

This Garlicky Dal recipe offers a hearty and nutritious dish that pairs well with spicy vegetables, bread, or rice. It’s versatile enough for everyday meals yet flavorful enough for special occasions. Enjoy the rich aroma and savory taste of Indian cuisine in every bite!