Indian Lentil Pilaf

Experience the comforting and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine with this Indian Lentil Pilaf, a wholesome one-pot dish that's both hearty and easy to prepare. Featuring fragrant basmati rice perfectly paired with protein-packed red lentils (masoor dal), this recipe is elevated with the warming spices of cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves for a tantalizing depth of flavor. A sauté of onions, garlic, and ginger adds a savory richness, while a hint of turmeric brings a golden hue and subtle earthiness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this versatile dish is perfect as a standalone vegetarian meal or a flavorful side to your favorite curries. Garnished with fresh cilantro, it’s a vibrant, gluten-free delight that’s easily made vegan with a plant-based cooking oil swap.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 0.5 cup Split red lentils (masoor dal)
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Ghee (or vegetable oil for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 3 whole Cardamom pods
• 1 2-inch piece Cinnamon stick
• 4 whole Cloves
• 1 whole Bay leaf
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, minced
• 1 whole Green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice and red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the ghee (or vegetable oil) in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using) and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Add the turmeric powder and mix well.

Step 7

Stir in the rinsed rice and lentils. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the mixture is well coated with the spices.

Step 8

Add 3 cups of water and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 9

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice and lentils are tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes.

Step 11

Fluff the pilaf gently with a fork, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1208.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	968.3

Total Fat 32.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 71.7mg	0%
Sodium 2426.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 139.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.2g	0%
Total Sugars 8.0g
Protein 36.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 280.9mg	0%
Iron 15.0mg	0%
Potassium 1178.3mg	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: 29.1%

Protein: 14.6%

Carbs: 56.3%