Spiced Red Lentil Dahl a Hearty Weeknight Winner

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered what a hug in a bowl tastes like? This red lentil curry recipe is it. Honestly, how do you cook lentils so they're both healthy and comforting? This recipe unlocks that secret.

It’s packed with flavour and super simple.

Brief Overview

Dahl is originally from India. This vegan version is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s easy to make in about 40 minutes. This red lentil dahl recipe makes 4 servings.

Main Benefits

Lentils are packed with protein and fibre. This Vegan Red Lentils Recipe is so good for you. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in.

What makes this quick lentil curry special? The spiced flavour and creamy texture of Creamy Coconut Red Lentil Curry . Honestly, it’s divine.

Spice It Up: Making the Magic Happen

First, you need a good base. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. I like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat! Then, bloom your spices: cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

Don't rush this step. It helps deepen the flavors. Honestly, the aroma alone is worth it!

Next, add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring it to a boil, then simmer. It should take about 25- 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.

I've overcooked them before. It's not the end of the world, but it’s better when they still have a little texture.

Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your liking. I like a generous squeeze of lemon! Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro.

A dollop of plain yogurt is also lovely. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread. Perfect for scooping every last bit.

Get Creative: Playing with Flavors

Want to mix things up? Use coconut milk instead of vegetable broth for a creamy twist. This turns it into a Vegan Red Lentil Curry .

Try adding chopped spinach or sweet potato. If you don’t have red lentils, use yellow split peas. The cooking time may vary.

So you know what is the Best way to cook red lentils , you should know that the key is paying attention to the spice levels and liquid consistency.

Also, If you're looking for Easy lentil recipes for dinner this recipe will become your go to!

Ingredients & Equipment for a Cracking Red Lentil Dahl

Right, let's talk ingredients. This Vegan Red Lentils Recipe is proper easy. It's also adaptable. You know? Like, if you haven't got exactly what I've listed, don't fret. We'll sort it.

Main Ingredients: The Starters

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml). Any decent oil works, though. Don't need anything fancy.
• 1 medium onion, chopped. Roughly 150g , yeah?
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. About 6g .
• 1 inch ginger, grated. Around 5g . Fresh is best, honestly.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5 ml). Essential for that spiced lentil recipes kick.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (5 ml). Pairs perfectly with cumin.
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (2.5 ml). Adds colour and warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder. Roughly 1.25 ml . Adjust to your taste, yeah?
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed (approx. 200g ). This is it. How do you cook lentils ? This way!
• 4 cups vegetable broth (approx. 950 ml ). Low sodium is usually better.
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (approx. 410g ). Tinned is fine.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml). Brightens everything up.
• Salt and pepper. To taste, obviously.

Seasoning Notes: Let's Get Spicy!

The cumin, coriander, and turmeric are the core. It is the secret to these Red Lentil Curry Recipes . Honestly, that combo's magic.

A touch of garam masala at the end? Chef's kiss! If you're missing chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper works in a pinch.

For a deeper flavor, try a bay leaf while simmering. Remove it before serving, mind. If you want that Creamy Coconut Red Lentil Curry , swap some of the broth for coconut milk.

I prefer the best way to cook red lentils with coconut milk!

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

All you really need is a decent saucepan. A big one, mind. So that nothing boils over. A wooden spoon for stirring is a must.

A knife and chopping board for the onion, garlic, and ginger goes without saying. You can use a microplane for the ginger.

A potato masher helps to achieve that red lentil dahl recipe texture at the end. I hope that helps you to cook the Vegan Red Lentil Curry in no time.

Spiced Red Lentil Dahl: Your Weeknight Hero

Alright, let's talk lentils. Not those boring, bland things your nan used to make. We're talking vibrant, flavour packed Spiced Red Lentil Dahl that’ll knock your socks off.

I mean, seriously, easy lentil recipes for dinner don't get much better than this.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, innit?

First things first, mise en place , as the posh chefs say. Basically, get everything chopped and measured before you even think about turning on the hob.

Chop 1 medium onion. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and grate about 1 inch of ginger. Got it? Now, measure out your spices: 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, and a pinch of chili powder to taste.

This recipe seriously cuts down on washing up too. So, less time in the kitchen and more time on the sofa, with a glass of wine I guess, now that's what I call heaven!

The Magic: Cooking Those Lentils

Now for the fun bit. This is how do you cook lentils the right way:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until it’s softened.
2. Chuck in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for a minute until fragrant. Honestly, the smell alone is worth it.
3. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds . Your kitchen will smell like a proper Indian takeaway.
4. Add 1 cup of rinsed red lentils , 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes to the pan. Stir it all together.
5. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25- 30 minutes . Or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve with chopped fresh cilantro and maybe a dollop of yogurt, if you fancy it.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Dahl

Want to make your red lentil dahl recipe a bit special? A splash of coconut milk really elevates the recipe in order to create the creamy coconut red lentil curry people are always talking about.

Want to know what the best way to cook red lentils are? Don't overcook those lentils! They should be tender, not mushy.

So, next time someone asks " how do you cook lentils " remember this simple spiced dahl. You can adjust the spices to your liking.

If you want to try some spiced lentil recipes , then add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Plus, It's quick, it's healthy, and it's blooming delicious! Don't forget to check out some vegan red lentil curry if that's more your thing.

It is a great start to discover several red lentil recipes .

And a quick lentil curry will always be a crowd pleaser.

Recipe Notes: Tips and Tricks for Lentil Nirvana

Alright, you've got the recipe for my seriously banging Spiced Red Lentil Dahl . But before you dive in, let’s chat about some insider secrets.

Think of it as my nan whispering her best cooking tips in your ear. Trust me, these little things make a huge difference!

Serving Suggestions: Ace Presentation

This dahl isn't just tasty, it's pretty too! Plate it up like a pro. A swirl of yogurt (if you're not keeping it strictly Vegan Red Lentil Recipe ), a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

..boom! Insta worthy. For sides? Fluffy basmati rice is a must. Naan bread for scooping? Even better! Want something refreshing? A simple cucumber raita cuts through the richness perfectly.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Leftovers? Score! Let your dahl cool completely before popping it in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Fancy freezing it? Go for it! Spoon it into freezer safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months . Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick.

Honestly, it tastes even better the next day.

Variations: Make It Your Dahl

Fancy a twist? How about a Creamy Coconut Red Lentil Curry ? Just swap out some of the broth for coconut milk.

Lush! Trying to get more greens in? Stir in a handful of spinach in the last five minutes of cooking.

You can even throw in some sweet potatoes for extra flavour. Red lentil curry recipes are so versatile, feel free to play around with the flavours! Just remember it's a Vegan Red Lentil Curry

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bowl

This Red Lentil Dahl Recipe isn't just delicious, it's packed with goodness. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber.

So you get a filling and nutritious meal! It's also low in fat. Plus, all those spices are great for you.

Think antioxidants and anti inflammatory properties. It's basically a health hug in a bowl!

How do you cook lentils perfectly? Simple! Follow the recipe, keep an eye on the liquid, and don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices.

Getting the consistency perfect and making sure the spices bloom is absolutely key! Seriously, get your spice game strong and you can produce some amazing spiced lentil recipes .

Plus knowing the best way to cook red lentils will ensure you always get it right. And if you're after some easy lentil recipes for dinner , this is totally one of them.

For when you are feeling rushed, this is also a great quick lentil curry .

This recipe is such a cracker and super simple. So get cooking, have fun, and enjoy every mouthful.