Description
This Creamy Coconut Lentil Dal is a comforting and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines protein-rich red lentils with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. Perfectly spiced with curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and a hint of chili, this dal is simmered to a luscious texture and finished with fresh lime juice and cilantro. Ideal as a hearty vegan main or a side dish, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or warm naan bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Dal and Liquids
- 1 cup red lentils (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
Aromatics and Spices
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Add Spices: Mix the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder into the pot. Stir thoroughly to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for approximately 1 minute to enhance their flavors.
- Cook Lentils: Add the rinsed red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if the dal becomes too thick before the lentils are tender and creamy.
- Finish the Dal: When the lentils are fully cooked and the mixture is creamy, stir in the fresh lime juice. Season the dal with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the warm dal into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, ideally accompanied by steamed rice, naan, or enjoy it as a hearty soup.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder quantity to control the heat level according to your preference.
- If you prefer a thinner dal, add extra vegetable broth or water during simmering.
- You can substitute coconut milk with light coconut milk for a lower-fat version.
- This dal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of water or broth.
- For added texture, garnish with toasted cumin seeds or fried onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: coconut lentil dal, vegan lentil curry, creamy dal recipe, Indian lentil soup, coconut milk dal, easy vegan dinner
