Explore one of the staples of Indian cuisine with this nourishing and aromatic spinach dhal recipe. Bursting with the goodness of lentils, spinach, and an array of spices, this dish offers a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Follow these simple steps to create a wholesome dhal that will warm you wonderfully.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of split red lentils
- 3 cups of fresh spinach
- 1 large onion
- 3 tomatoes
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1-inch ginger
- 1 green chili
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed red lentils with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are tender and the mixture thickens (about 15-20 minutes).
- In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until they break down and become pulpy. Sprinkle turmeric powder, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder (if using) over the tomato mixture. Cook the spices for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Transfer the tomato-spice mixture to the pot of cooked lentils. Stir well to combine. Add chopped spinach to the lentils and cook until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld together. Season the dhal with salt, adjusting to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice.
