Try this creamy, spiced Red Lentil Dahl – a vegan, protein-packed Indian comfort food ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect with rice or naan!
Easy Red Lentil Dahl Recipe | Vegan, Protein-Rich & Ready in 30 Mins
🌟 IntroductionRed Lentil Dahl (also spelled dal or daal) is a soul-soothing Indian dish that’s flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a nourishing, one-pot vegan meal. With aromatic spices and a creamy texture, this dahl pairs perfectly with rice, naan, or even as a soup.
Servings: 4
Cost: 100
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils masoor dal, rinsed thoroughly
- 1 tbsp oil or vegan butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 inch ginger grated
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds optional
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 large tomato finely chopped (or ½ cup tomato puree)
- 3 cups water or more as needed
- Salt to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat oil in a pot. Add cumin and mustard seeds. Once they sizzle, add chopped onion and cook until golden. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute.
Spice it Up
- Add turmeric, coriander, and garam masala. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Add Tomatoes & Lentils
- Add chopped tomatoes. Cook until they soften (2–3 mins). Add rinsed red lentils and water. Stir and bring to a boil.
Simmer & Cook
- Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 mins, stirring occasionally, until the lentils break down into a creamy texture.
Final Touch
- Add salt and lemon juice. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed. Garnish with cilantro.
🍚 Serving Suggestions
- With steamed basmati rice or jeera rice
- Scoop it up with warm naan or roti
- Serve as a warming lentil soup
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add a swirl of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
- Spice lovers can add chili powder or green chili.
- Mix in some spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for a month.
🔥 Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 9g
- Fat: 4g
- 100% Vegan & Gluten-Free