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Vegan Red Lentil Dahl

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Vegan Red Lentil Dahl is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful Indian-inspired dish made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and coconut milk. It’s a hearty, plant-based one-pot meal that’s quick to prepare and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  2. 1 medium onion, chopped
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  5. 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
  6. 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk or 2–2.5 cups water
  7. 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
  8. 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  9. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  10. 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  11. 1 teaspoon garam masala
  12. 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
  13. 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, chopped (optional)
  14. Salt to taste
  15. 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
  16. Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds (if using) and let them pop for a few seconds.

  1. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and golden.
  2. Stir in garlic, ginger, and chili (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir and toast the spices for 1 minute.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until they break down and form a thick sauce.
  5. Stir in rinsed red lentils and coconut milk (or enough water to cover by 1 inch). Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and creamy.
  7. Season with salt and stir in lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavor.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, naan, or flatbread.

Notes

  • For a richer texture, use full-fat canned coconut milk.
  • To add greens, stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Mash a portion of the lentils or simmer uncovered to thicken the dahl.
  • Adjust spice level by using more or less chili.
  • Great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/vegan-red-lentil-dahl/