Lentil Curry (Dal) is a nutritious, vegan Indian dish made with lentils and spiced with turmeric, cumin, and coriander. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal, often served with rice or flatbread, making it a comforting and wholesome option.
Ingredients
For the Lentil Curry:
- Lentils: 1 cup (red or green lentils work well)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated or minced
- Tomato: 1 large, diced (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
- Coconut Milk: 1 can (optional, for creaminess)
- Vegetable Broth: 3 cups (or water)
- Spinach: 2 cups (fresh or frozen, optional)
Spices:
- Curry Powder: 2 tablespoons
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust for spice level)
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- Vegetable Oil or Ghee: for sautéing
- Fresh Cilantro: for garnish
- Lemon or Lime Juice: for a splash of acidity
- Carrots or Bell Peppers: chopped, for added vegetables
Execution
1. Prepare the Lentils
- Rinse the Lentils: Place the lentils in a sieve and rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.
- Cook the Onions: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Spices
- Mix in the Spices: Add 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of coriander, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Combine Ingredients
- Add Lentils and Tomatoes: Pour in the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes. Stir to mix well.
- Add Broth: Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer
- Reduce Heat: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Coconut Milk and Spinach
- Incorporate Coconut Milk: If using, stir in the can of coconut milk and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach until wilted (if using).
7. Season and Serve
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the curry and add salt, pepper, or more spices as needed.
- Garnish: Serve the lentil curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, if desired.
8. Enjoy!
Serve over rice, with naan bread, or enjoy on its own as a hearty meal.