Try This Incredible Recipe for Green Lentil Dhal

By
Mike Z
-
Lentil dhal dish
Image by Cindy from Pixabay

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India with this tantalizing recipe for green lentil dhal, a comforting and nutritious dish that’s bursting with aromatic spices and wholesome flavors. Made with tender green lentils, fragrant spices, and aromatic herbs, this dhal is a perfect balance of richness, warmth, and nourishment. Here’s how you can make it.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of green lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 3 cups of water
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 tin of diced tomatoes
  • 1 tin of coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan or pot, combine the rinsed green lentils and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess water and set aside.
  2. In the same saucepan, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
  3. Add the cumin seeds to the saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they start to sizzle and release their aroma. Stir in the ground turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan, along with any juices from the can. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce. Pour in the coconut milk and cooked green lentils, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the dal to thicken slightly.
  5. Taste the dhal and adjust the seasoning with salt, if needed. Once the dhal is cooked to your liking and has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  6. Serve the flavorful green lentil dhal hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro leaves and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the dal. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and aromatic flavors of this delicious Indian classic, savoring each spoonful as you embrace the rich cultural heritage of Indian cuisine.