Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (2024)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Diesen Beitrag gibt es auch auf:

  • Deutsch

This Easy Indian Red Lentil Dahl recipe is a must-try if you’re looking for a flavorful curry, soup, or stew dish, that’s vegan and protein-rich. It’s delicious, healthy and one of the best lentil dishes to warm you up in winter or for cold weather.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (2)

You can’t go wrong with this Indian Lentil Dahl, it’s pretty easy to make and you can make various variations to fit your taste. This dish is also rich in micro- and macronutrients like carbohydrates and protein, so it nourishes your body perfectly. The ingredients are inexpensive and very simple. Let’s get started!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (3)

What is Lentil Dahl

If India has a staple dish, it has to be Dahl (also spelled Daal, Dhal, or Dal). Whether you’re rich or poor, everybody eats this dish. While “Dahl” is a term used for dried, split pulses or legumes such as lentils, dried peas, and beans, it is also the of the dish itself – A flavorful curry or rather soup that is more similar to a thick stew. And though lentil dishes have been around for a long time in India, the history of daal dates far way back in a period in which lentils were probably a staple food all over South Asian countries.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (4)

Lentil Dahl Recipe Variations

From ingredients to flavors, you can practically add your own twist to this recipe. While soft-boiled lentils give a wonderfully creamy, thick, soup-like consistency, many traditional Dahl recipes are also prepared with other split pulses such as beans, chickpeas, or peas. However, there are now a variety of newer recipe variations that include other spices, additional vegetables, and even meat or meat alternatives.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (5)

Here are some of the most popular dal variationsyou could prepare this recipe with:

  • Chana Daal – are chickpeas that are cleaned, hulled, and split after harvesting. It’s a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic and Indian cuisine.
  • Urad Daal – or known as the “black gram” is a staple ingredient in East Indian recipes. It has high protein content and the primary ingredient in south Indian dosa and idli.
  • Panchratna Daal – means “five jewels” in Hindi/Urdu. Five varieties of daal are combined creating a distinct flavor.
  • Masoor Daal – is characterized by its red color, these are split red lentils that cook fast and don’t require pre-soaking. This is also what we use in today’s recipe.

Now if you’re interested in trying out another dahl recipe, you would love myYellow Lentil Dal! This Indian Lentil soup like today’s recipe is healthy and perfect for cold weather.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (6)

How to make Indian Red Lentil Dahl

Craving for something healthy yet filling recipe? Let’s start making this lentil dahl!

First, in a skillet or saucepan, heat the coconut oil. Toss the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. After that, add the garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Lastly, add your spices and sauté for a few seconds to bring out the flavors.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (7)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (8)

Rinse the lentils under cold running water in a fine-mashed sieve. Then toss them in the skillet with the onion mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir, bring to a simmer. For 8-10 minutes, cook covered until the water is almost absorbed by the lentils. Add the coconut milk and strained tomatoes (if using), simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. (Tip: If the sauce is too thick or if you’d like to serve this Indian lentil dish as a soup, add a more broth or coconut milk until your desired consistency is reached.)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (9)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (10)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (11)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (12)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (13)

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (14)

Then, season with salt, pepper coconut sugar, and lime or lemon juice to taste. And for the final touch, garnish your Indian red lentil dahl with a swirl of non-dairy yogurt, freshly chopped parsley or coriander, and sesame seeds or other toppings you like. You can serve it over rice or with homemade vegan naan or aloo paratha oruse your Indian lentil curry as a filling for your favorite hearty pancake, crêpes, ortortilla recipe. Enjoy!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (15)

Can you make it ahead?

Yes! This is also a fitting meal if you’re doing meal preps. Just make sure to use fresh ingredients to preserve the taste once you refrigerate or freeze them. When you’re ready toserve it, you can simply reheat it on the stove with a little additional water or warm it in the microwave.

Storage and freezing instructions

Got some leftovers or did you set aside some for later? Here’s how to store it:

  • Store in an airtight container and put inside the refrigerator, it will last for 3-5 days.
  • Want to keep them longer? Freeze it for future meals!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (16)

Tips for making the best Lentil Dahl

Want to make the best lentil dahl? Here are some tips you can follow:

  • Which lentils?– make sure to use fresh/new and high-quality lentils. This is an essential ingredient so this will affect the taste of the recipe. Basically you can use any kind of lentils you like. However, keep in mind that you may have to adjust the cooking time, as it can vary depending on the type. It is best to simply check the instructions on the package.
  • Rinse – get rid of any husks or other debris before cooking your lentil dal.
  • Timing is everything – cook the lentils until soft but not for too long or they will get mushy.
  • Fresh ingredients – using fresh lemon juice, flavorful tomatoes, organic coconut milk, and high-quality seasonings can make a huge difference in taste.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (17)

This Indian Red Lentil Dahl Recipe is:

  • Vegan, Plant-based
  • Gluten-free
  • Diary-free (lactose-free)
  • Quick and easy to make
  • Satisfying
  • Protein-Rich
  • Flavorful
  • Creamy
  • Comforting
  • So delicious
  • The perfect vegan weeknight dinner!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (18)

Did you enjoy this recipe?

If you loved this recipe, you might want to try these Indian inspired recipes:

  • Vegan Black Lentil Curry
  • Lentil Meatballs in Indian Curry Sauce
  • Aloo Paratha
  • Indian Chickpea Curry

If you try this Vegan Red Lentil Dahl recipe, please leave a comment and a rating on how you liked it! And if you take a picture of your Indian lentil curry soup and share it on Instagram, please tag me @biancazapatka and use the hashtag #biancazapatka, because I love seeing your remakes! Happy cooking!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (19)

Indian Red Lentil Dahl

Author: Bianca Zapatka

This Easy Indian Red Lentil Dahl is a must-try if you’re looking for a flavorful curry, soup, or stew recipe. It’s delicious, healthy and one of the best lentil dishes to warm you up in winter or for cold weather.

4.99 von 649 Bewertungen

Print Pin Review

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Lunch & Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish, Soup

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 458 kcal

Ingredients

For the Dahl

  • 1-2 tbsp coconut oil or other neutral oil for frying
  • 2 onions chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tsp ginger minced (or more to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp red paprika powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala or other curry powder to taste
  • 1 ⅔ cups (300 g) dry red lentils
  • 3 ¼ cups (780 ml) vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) strained tomatoes or chopped tomatoes, optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tsp coconut sugar or to taste
  • 2-3 tbsp lime or lemon juice or to taste

To serve (optional)

Instructions

  • *Note: Check out the recipe video + step-by-step photos above for visual instruction!

  • Heat the coconut oil in a skillet or saucepan. Add the chopped onions, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then add the garlic and ginger sauté for another minute until fragrant. Lastly, add the spices, and sauté for a few seconds to unfold flavors.

  • Place the lentils in a fine-mashed sieve and rinse until cold running water. Then add them to the onion mixture in the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Cook covered for 8-10 minutes, or until the lentils have absorbed most of the liquid.

  • Add the coconut milk and strained tomatoes (if using) and simmer another 5-10 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. (If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or coconut milk, until the desired consistency is reached). Season with salt, pepper, coconut sugar, and lime juice to taste.

  • Garnish your dahl with a swirl of non-dairy yogurt, fresh chopped parsley or coriander, and sesame seeds or other toppings you like. Serve over rice or with homemade vegan naan or aloo paratha or use it as a filling for your favorite heartypancake,crêpes, ortortilla recipe. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage & freezing: Store leftover dahl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days or freeze for the future.
  • Nutrition information doesn't include rice.
  • Please read my blog post for tips, recipe variations, and further information.

Nutritions

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 458kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Sodium: 799mg | Potassium: 1122mg | Fiber: 25g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 777IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 9mg

Nutrition is calculated automatically and should be used as estimate.

Did you make this recipe?Mention @biancazapatka or tag #biancazapatka!

IF YOU HAVE PINTEREST, YOU CAN FIND ME HERE AND PIN THE FOLLOWING PICTURE, IF YOU LIKE! 🙂

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (20)

©Bianca Zapatka | All images & content are copyright protected. Please do not use myimages without prior permission. If you want to republish this recipe, please link back to this post for the recipe. More info here. Thank youfor supporting biancazapatka.com!

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (21)Disclosure for affiliate links with asterisk(*):
Thispage may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, at no additional cost to you. You can find more information here.

Red Lentil Dahl (Easy Indian Recipe) (2024)

FAQs

Is red lentil dahl good for you? ›

Absolutely. Not only are red lentils a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, iron, folate, and several other vitamins/minerals, but other ingredients in this Indian lentil dish further boost healthfulness. For example, turmeric has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Is red lentils the same as dhal? ›

Yes, masoor dal and split red lentils are the same thing, though masoor dal commonly refers to Indian-spiced red lentils specifically, like this dish. Here, our red lentils are enlivened with cumin, fennel, and turmeric and perfumed with garlic, ginger, and chiles.

What is dahl made of? ›

As an ingredient, dal refers to a split version of legumes like lentils, chickpeas, etc. As a recipe, dal is made by simmering together yellow or red split lentils with warming spices and often coconut milk, tomatoes and broth to create a lovely, super-nutritious meal with a stew-like consistency.

What to serve with red lentil dahl? ›

Well, you can serve it with pretty much anything. However, there are 2 things in particular that red lentil dhal pair beautifully with. The first one being rice, I like to simply serve some steamed rice in a bowl, then I add a nice big ladle of dhal over the top, then garnish with some herbs and happy days.

Is it okay to eat red lentils every day? ›

Eating half a cup of cooked lentils gives you lots of essential nutrients and their high fiber content makes you feel full. However, the fiber in lentils can be hard for your body to break down. Eating too many lentils can cause gas, bloating, and cramping.

Which color lentil is healthiest? ›

Black Lentils (Beluga lentils)

Best of all, black lentils are the most nutritious variety of lentils, boasting the highest amount of protein, plus high levels of calcium, potassium, and iron.

Do red lentils need to be soaked? ›

Do red lentils need to be soaked before cooking? No, there is no need to soak red lentils before cooking but it is a good idea to give them a quick rinse.

What are lentils called on an Indian menu? ›

Basically, you need dal (lentil) to make dal (lentil soup). While you can make a dal out of any pulse, typically, the word “dal” only shows up in the name of a pulse if it is a split lentil. For example, chana dal = split chickpeas, whereas if I am referring to whole chickpeas, I would say chana or chole.

What is the Indian name for red lentil dal? ›

Masoor (also known as red lentil, Hindi: masoor, Gujarati: masoor) is a brown skinned lentil that is orange on the inside. Masoor dal has a pleasant earthy flavor and is very common in Northern India. It is commonly used to make dal, soups and stews.

Can I eat dahl every day? ›

Yes, You can have dal once per day. You can have as part of lunch. Dals are rich in proteins, Essential amino acid, potassium, Iron, Fiber, and Vitamin B1. Helps to lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels.

What are the side effects of dahl? ›

Masoor dal is high in fibre, so eating it can sometimes cause gas problems. Doctors advise that consuming too much can lead to acidity problems. Also, these pulses are high in protein. So if it is added to the diet in excess, there is a risk of weight gain and excess fat in the body.

How do Indians eat dal? ›

In Indian households, we eat our dal with roti, rice, or dosa. With the carb component you have a complete protein and an amazing meal at that. I encourage folks that take my classes to think of dal as a side to bread and/or rice or as a soup.

Is red lentil dal healthy? ›

Dhal is an excellent source of iron and fibre, and a good source of protein, for vegetarians. Red lentil dahl is full of flavour and this version is also packed with vegetables, making it the perfect healthy comfort food.

What meat goes with lentils? ›

But if meat is still on the table for you, pair lentils with fats like duck and pork (think bacon) to add a bit of richness to this mild-flavored legume. Whether you're trying a meatless meal or making a hearty stew, lentils are a go-to pantry staple that deserve to come out of the pantry to shine this winter.

Should you eat dahl with rice? ›

The Dahl though, is good enough to stand on its own. It's spiced with curry and cooked to perfection. When paired with rice, it's a prefect meal.

Which dhal is the healthiest? ›

One of the most nutrient-dense pulses known to us is urad dal, or black lentil. Urad dal, being low in fat and calories, aids in better digestion. It is considered to strengthen our nervous system, increase energy levels, improve heart health, and strengthen our bones because it is high in protein and vitamin B3.

Is lentil Dahl high in carbs? ›

Ainsley Harriot Lentil Dahl (1 serving) contains 40g total carbs, 31.5g net carbs, 1.1g fat, 17.8g protein, and 243 calories.

Are red lentils or chickpeas healthier? ›

Since lentils have more fiber, lentils win this round. Lentils contain more protein than Chickpeas. Both chickpeas and lentils are great sources of vegetable protein. However, since lentils have more of this healthy nutrient, lentils win this round.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Lidia Grady

Last Updated:

Views: 6175

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Lidia Grady

Birthday: 1992-01-22

Address: Suite 493 356 Dale Fall, New Wanda, RI 52485

Phone: +29914464387516

Job: Customer Engineer

Hobby: Cryptography, Writing, Dowsing, Stand-up comedy, Calligraphy, Web surfing, Ghost hunting

Introduction: My name is Lidia Grady, I am a thankful, fine, glamorous, lucky, lively, pleasant, shiny person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.