Spiced Onion Dahl

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, Spiced Onion Dahl is the perfect comfort dish that combines aromatic spices with the creamy richness of lentils. This vegetarian recipe features tender red lentils simmered with golden caramelized onions, fresh ginger, and garlic, all infused with earthy turmeric, cumin, and coriander. A splash of coconut milk enhances its velvety texture, while a kick of red chili flakes adds just the right amount of heat. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a touch of zesty lemon juice, this Indian-inspired dahl pairs beautifully with steamed rice or warm flatbreads for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Ready in under an hour, this gluten-free, plant-based recipe is a nourishing and flavorful choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 g red lentils
• 2 medium yellow onion
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 15 g fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 8 leaves curry leaves (optional)
• 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
• 400 ml canned coconut milk
• 500 ml water
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

Peel and finely dice the onions. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and curry leaves (if using). Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the red chili flakes and rinsed lentils. Mix to coat the lentils in the aromatic spices.

Step 6

Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened.

Step 8

Season the dahl with salt and black pepper. Stir in the lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the dahl is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Pair with steamed rice or flatbreads for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1428.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1569.9

Total Fat 127.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 89.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2459.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 100.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.0g	0%
Total Sugars 26.0g
Protein 31.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 292.5mg	0%
Iron 24.9mg	0%
Potassium 2429.7mg	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: 68.4%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 24.1%