Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4-6
This Hearty Vegan Red Lentil Dal is a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, this dal is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
For the Dal:
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups of red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 4 cups of vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14 ounces) of coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced green onions
For Serving:
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Spices
- Toast the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Lentils
- Add Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed and drained red lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Add Broth and Coconut Milk: Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the dal has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve the Dal
- Plate the Dal: Divide the dal among serving bowls.
- Garnish: Garnish each serving with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve: Serve hot with cooked basmati rice or naan bread.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this hearty and flavorful red lentil dal!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Vegetables: Add some chopped spinach, kale, or carrots to the dal for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Lentils: Substitute red lentils with yellow lentils or split peas for a different texture and taste.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information:
This red lentil dal is rich in protein and fiber from the lentils and packed with vitamins and minerals from the spices and vegetables. The coconut milk adds healthy fats, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dal can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Rice: Serve over steamed basmati rice for a complete meal.
- With Bread: Pair with warm naan bread or chapati for a traditional touch.
- As a Soup: Enjoy as a hearty soup with a side of fresh salad.
This Hearty Vegan Red Lentil Dal is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs creates a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this delightful dal with family and friends. Happy cooking!
