Ingredients
Dal Base
- 1 cup dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red or green chili pepper, seeds removed
Spices
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils: Sort and rinse the green lentils to remove any damaged ones. Soak them in lukewarm water for 15 minutes to improve digestibility, then drain the soaking water.
- Chop Aromatics: Finely dice the carrot, onion, chili, and grate the ginger. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then add the chili, garlic, ginger, and carrot. Stir and reduce heat to low.
- Add Spices and Lentils: Temporarily remove the vegetables to one side and add a little more oil to temper the spices—add ground cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and coriander to the hot oil and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then return the vegetables, add the soaked lentils and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 15 minutes.
- Incorporate Coconut Milk: Stir in the canned coconut milk and continue to cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the dal thickens slightly. For a creamier texture, optionally puree about one-quarter to one-third of the dal.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dal and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with rice, naan, and garnish with fresh parsley or non-dairy yogurt if desired. Enjoy your wholesome meal!
Notes
- Soaking lentils helps with digestion and shortens cooking time.
- Use fresh coconut milk canned for better flavor and creaminess.
- You can adjust the chili pepper quantity to suit your spice preference.
- Puréeing part of the dal is optional but creates a smoother texture.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs and non-dairy yogurt adds freshness and creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
