Hi friends!
If you love cozy, warm meals that are healthy and super flavorful, then you’re going to love this Lentil Dal. It’s one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something filling, quick, and full of good-for-you ingredients. Plus, scooping it up with some soft, warm naan? Total perfection!
Let’s dive into this easy and tasty dish that’s packed with protein, fiber, and cozy spices.
Method
Rinse the Lentils
The first and super important step is rinsing the red lentils. Place them in a fine mesh strainer and rinse them really well under cold running water. I like to use my hands to gently move the lentils around while rinsing to make sure they’re clean. This helps remove any dust or extra starch that can make the dal too thick or mushy when cooking. You’ll notice the water gets cloudy at first keep rinsing until it runs mostly clear. Once they’re rinsed, set the lentils aside while you get your other ingredients ready.
Cook the Lentils
Now it’s time to cook! Grab your medium-sized saucepan and add in the rinsed lentils along with the two cans of light coconut milk. This creamy milk gives the dal such a comforting, rich flavor. Then sprinkle in the turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and a good pinch of salt. Turn the heat to medium and give everything a good stir. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat a bit and let it simmer. Stir the dal often as it cooks so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. It should take about 20 to 25 minutes for the lentils to soften and break down into a thick, creamy mixture. If it gets too thick while cooking, don’t worry just add a splash or two of water to thin it out to your liking.
Make the Spiced Topping
While the lentils are simmering away, let’s make that amazing, flavorful topping! Take a small frying pan and heat a little oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and curry powder. These spices are going to pop and sizzle this is totally normal and means the flavors are waking up! Let the spices cook for about 20 seconds. Be careful not to overcook them they can burn quickly. As soon as they start bubbling, toss in the finely chopped onion and the minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook until the onion turns soft and golden brown. This will smell absolutely amazing and will be packed with flavor. If you’re using curry leaves, this is a good time to add them too they’ll sizzle and add a delicious, traditional touch.
Mix It All
Once the lentils are soft and creamy and the topping is golden and fragrant, it’s time to bring it all together. Carefully pour the spiced onion topping into the pot of cooked lentils. Give everything a good stir so the flavors mix well. Taste the dal and add a little more salt if you think it needs it. Now you have a thick, cozy, flavorful dal that’s ready to serve. I love topping mine with fresh chopped coriander for a fresh, herby finish.
Necessary Tools
Here’s what I use to make this easy recipe:
- Medium saucepan (for the dal)
- Small frying pan (for the spiced topping)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing lentils)
Easy Lentil Dal Recipe; A Cozy, Comforting Bowl!
Cuisine: IndianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes35
minutesIngredients
For the Lentils:
320g red lentils (about 1.5 cups)
2 cans light coconut milk
1 tsp turmeric
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp cinnamon
Salt to taste
For the Spiced Topping:
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp curry powder
A few curry leaves (optional, but yummy!)
Fresh coriander (for topping)
Optional Toppings:
Yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
Squeeze of lemon juice
Fried onions
Directions
- Rinse the Lentils Give your red lentils a really good rinse under cold water using a strainer. This removes any dust or extra starch.
- Cook the Lentils In a saucepan, add your rinsed lentils, coconut milk, turmeric, cayenne, cinnamon, and some salt. Cook it all on medium heat for about 20–25 minutes. Stir often so it doesn’t stick! If it gets too thick, just add a splash of water.
- Make the Spiced Topping While the lentils cook, heat some oil in a small pan. Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and curry powder. Let them sizzle for about 20 seconds. Once they’re bubbly, toss in your chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and golden. This will smell amazing!
- Mix It All Pour the spiced onion topping into your cooked lentils. Stir it in well. Add more salt if needed. Now it’s ready!
Notes
- Don’t skip rinsing the lentils. It helps with texture and keeps the dish from getting too thick or mushy.
- Keep an eye on the lentils as they cook stir often and add a little water if needed.
- Spices cook fast! When making the topping, don’t walk away from the pan. They can burn quickly.
- Salt at the end if possible some coconut milk brands are salty already.
Serving Suggestions
Here’s how I like to serve my lentil dal:
- With warm naan or flatbread for scooping
- Over fluffy basmati rice
- Topped with fresh coriander, a dollop of yogurt, and a squeeze of lemon
- Add crispy fried onions on top for a crunchy surprise
Perfect for lunch or dinner, and it makes great leftovers too!
Fun Fact
Did you know “dal” just means lentils in many South Asian languages? It’s a staple dish in countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh and there are so many ways to make it. This one is a creamy, cozy version with coconut milk!
Conclusion
This Easy Lentil Dal is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s warm, simple, and super healthy plus, it uses pantry staples and just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking or a total kitchen pro, this dish is always a winner.
Now grab some naan, scoop it up, and enjoy every bite. Let me know if you make it I’d love to hear how it turns out!
