Red Lentil Dahl

5 from 4 votes

This recipe offers a hearty dish rich in protein and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting meal anytime.

Course Dinner, Main, Side Dish

Cuisine Indian

Keyword dal, red lentil dal, red lentil dal recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings

Calories 340

Rinse the lentils with fresh water.
In a large pot, bring the lentils and broth to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the cumin seeds and asafetida and fry for a few seconds until they sputter. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Add the garlic, ginger, chili powder, and garam masala and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
Add the onion mixture and the tomatoes to the pot with the lentils and stir well. Simmer for another 10 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the dal is thick and creamy. Adjust the salt and lemon juice to your taste.
Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan bread. Enjoy!

Check out the step-by-step photos just below the recipe card to guide you every step of the way!

Erren's Top Tips

Rinse Lentils: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly to ensure they’re clean and to remove any bitterness.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro will enhance the flavor of the dal while using homemade or high-quality broth, resulting in a richer, more flavorful dish.
Adjust Consistency: If the dal is too thick, add a little water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes longer.
Adjust the heat to your taste: Add more chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes if you like spicy food. “You can adjust the heat according to your taste by adding more chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes if you like spicy food. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less spice or omit the chili powder altogether. Tailoring the recipe to your taste will ensure that you truly enjoy the dish.”Would you prefer a milder flavor? Use less spice or omit the chili powder altogether. Tailoring the recipe to your taste will ensure you truly enjoy a dish.

Storage: Cool the Red Lentil Dahl completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.