Description
This comforting Red Lentil Dahl is a flavorful, creamy Indian-inspired stew made with red lentils simmered in a blend of aromatic spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk. It’s easy to prepare, naturally vegan, and perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant to release their flavors.
- Toast Spices: Add ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, and cinnamon to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring to release the spices’ aromas.
- Simmer Lentils: Stir in the red lentils, water or vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the dahl is creamy.
- Finish with Coconut Milk & Salt: Pour in the coconut milk and add salt to taste. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the dahl hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional lemon wedges. It pairs beautifully with rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder to control spiciness according to your preference.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.
- Red lentils cook quickly and break down easily, resulting in a creamy texture without blending.
- This dahl is gluten-free and vegan, suitable for many dietary preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency.
