Curried Lentils (Dal)
Warm up with this easy, flavorful Curried Lentils recipe that's ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Steps
- 1 Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- 2 Add garlic and spices; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3 Stir in lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- 4 Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender.
- 5 Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
Tips
- Rinse lentils thoroughly to avoid a gritty texture.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice at the end.
- Swap in red lentils for a creamier texture.
- This dal pairs well with rice or warm naan bread.
- Make sure to use fresh spices for the best flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed basmati rice.
- Pair with warm naan bread.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Add roasted vegetables on the side.
FAQ
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, use 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed lentils, and reduce cooking time to 5 minutes.
What spices can I substitute if I don't have them all?
Use 2 teaspoons of curry powder as a general substitute for the cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and check your spices for cross-contamination.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely, just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan.
How do I know when the lentils are cooked?
Lentils are done when they are soft but still hold their shape; avoid overcooking to prevent mushy lentils.