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Lentil Curry (Dal) Recipe

When I first tried this Lentil Curry (Dal) recipe, I was astounded by how something so simple could be so heartwarming and delicious. The aroma filled the house, drawing my family into the kitchen even before the dish was ready. We gathered around the table, each of us eagerly awaiting our turn to ladle the fragrant curry over fluffy rice. The flavors were rich and comforting, with a hint of spice that lingered pleasantly. It was an instant hit, and my family has since declared this dish a must-have in our weekly meal rotation. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or when you have friends over.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Lentil Curry lies in its simplicity, made from ingredients that are likely already in your pantry:

  • 1 cup of red lentils
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon of garam masala
  • 1 can (400g) of diced tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Cooking this Lentil Curry is as straightforward as its ingredient list, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks:

  1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch and ensures a smooth curry.
  2. In a large pot, combine the lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  3. While the lentils are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir the spices into the onion mixture for about a minute to release their flavors.
  6. Add the can of diced tomatoes to the pan, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Once the lentils are done, combine them with the tomato and spice mixture. Stir everything together, adding salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Let the curry simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. If the curry becomes too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves four people, with each serving containing approximately 250 calories. It’s a healthy, filling option that doesn’t compromise on taste, perfect for those watching their caloric intake while wanting something satisfying and nutritious.

Preparation Time

From start to finish, this Lentil Curry takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, ideal for busy weeknights when you need something fast yet fulfilling.

How to Serve

Here are some delightful ways to serve Lentil Curry:

  • With Rice: Serve the curry over a bed of steamed basmati or jasmine rice for a traditional experience.
  • With Naan: Pair with warm naan bread to scoop up the curry for a comforting meal.
  • As a Soup: Add more water or broth to turn this curry into a hearty, warming soup.
  • In a Wrap: Use as a filling for wraps or rotis for a portable meal option.
  • With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to elevate your Lentil Curry:

  1. Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes or fresh chilies to suit your taste.
  2. Texture: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the cooked lentils before adding them back into the curry.
  3. Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or tofu for extra protein, making the dish even more filling.
  4. Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
  5. Storage: This curry can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month, making it perfect for meal prep.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lentil Curry:

  1. Can I use different types of lentils?
    Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and result in a smoother texture.
  2. Is this dish vegan?
    Yes, this Lentil Curry recipe is completely vegan and can be enjoyed by those following a plant-based diet.
  3. How can I make it gluten-free?
    The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that all your spices are certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
  4. What can I substitute for garam masala?
    If you don’t have garam masala, you can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper as an alternative.
  5. Can I make this curry ahead of time?
    Absolutely! The flavors improve over time, so making it a day ahead is a great idea for an even more flavorful dish.