Classic Indian Dhal

Discover the comforting warmth of **Classic Indian Dhal**, a soul-soothing dish that combines creamy red lentils with an aromatic medley of spices. This vegan-friendly recipe is a quintessential staple of Indian cuisine, offering layers of flavor crafted from sautéed cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, and tomatoes, all infused with vibrant turmeric, garam masala, and coriander. Simmered to perfection and finished with a bright hint of lemon juice and fresh cilantro, this hearty dhal pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fluffy naan. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or as part of a festive Indian feast, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 grams Red lentils
• 750 milliliters Water
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 units Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch piece Ginger, minced
• 1 unit Green chili, chopped
• 2 medium Tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Place the red lentils in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a large pot, combine the lentils, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low and let the lentils simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are completely soft and tender.

Step 4

While the lentils are cooking, heat the ghee or oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they turn golden brown.

Step 6

Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

Step 7

Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chili, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 8

Add the chopped tomatoes, ground coriander, and ground cumin to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.

Step 9

Once the lentils are cooked, use a whisk or spoon to lightly mash them for a creamier consistency.

Step 10

Stir the tomato mixture into the pot with the lentils and mix well.

Step 11

Add the garam masala and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 12

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice.

Step 13

Serve hot with rice or bread of your choice, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1285.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	616.4

Total Fat 31.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 17.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 84mg	0%
Sodium 2417.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 67.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.1g	0%
Total Sugars 14.0g
Protein 22.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 211.6mg	0%
Iron 13.7mg	0%
Potassium 1531.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.8%

Protein: 14.3%

Carbs: 41.9%