Easy Red Lentil Dal (One-Pot Meal)
Ingredients
- 2 tbspolive oil
- 1onion
chopped
- 2 clovesgarlic
grated
- 1 inchginger
grated
- ¼ tspred pepper flakes
- 2 tspgaram masala
or indian-style curry powder
- 1 tspcoriander
ground
- 1 tspturmeric
ground
- ½ tspcumin
ground
- 2vine tomatoes crushed tomatoes)
grated - or 1 can (15 oz / 400 g
- 3 cvegetable broth
up to 4 cups if needed – reduced-sodium
- 1 cdried red lentils
rinsed
- ½ chalf-and-half
or unsweetened oat cream
- ¾ tspsalt
- 4packed cups spinach
- 1lemon
cut into wedges
- 4 cservings cooked basmati rice
or naan bread + yogurt
Directions
- 1
Chop the onion and grate the tomatoes. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 onion (chopped) and cook for about 3 minutes, until soft.
- 2
Add 2 cloves garlic and 1 inch ginger (grated), ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons garam masala, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1 teaspoon turmeric, and ½ teaspoon cumin. Stir for 30 seconds to warm the spices. Add a splash of broth if the pot feels dry.
- 3
Stir in 2 vine tomatoes (grated). Let them simmer for about 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- 4
Add 3 cups vegetable broth and 1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed). Season with ¾ teaspoon salt and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring now and then, until the lentils are soft and creamy. Add more broth if needed.
- 5
Stir in ½ cup half-and-half and 4 packed cups spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning. It might need a pinch more salt.
- 6
Serve hot with rice or naan, a squeeze of lemon, fresh cilantro if you like, and a dollop of yogurt.
Easy Red Lentil Dal (One-Pot Meal)
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Based on 7 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Cozy Comfort in a Bowl: Easy One-Pot Red Lentil Dal
Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner that comes together in a flash? This Easy Red Lentil Dal is your answer! Perfect for a cozy night in, this one pot red lentil dal combines tender red lentils (also known as Masoor dal) with aromatic spices and a creamy tomato base, all cooked in just one pot. It's a lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering a wholesome meal that's ready in about 30 minutes of cook time.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and depth of flavor. We're talking pantry staples transformed into a rich, comforting dish. Grated fresh ginger and garlic provide a vibrant base, while a blend of garam masala, turmeric, coriander, and cumin infuses the dal with authentic Indian-inspired warmth. The beauty of this pantry lentil recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, creating minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this weeknight lentil dinner is designed for success.
Tips for the Perfect Dal:
- Spice It Up (or Down): The red pepper flakes are entirely adjustable. Add more for a fiery kick, or omit for a milder flavor profile, especially if serving to children.
- Creaminess Factor: Half-and-half adds a lovely richness, but for a dairy-free option, unsweetened oat cream or coconut milk works beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness and velvety texture.
- Greens Power: While spinach is suggested, feel free to experiment with other quick-cooking greens like chopped kale or Swiss chard, stirring them in during the last few minutes until wilted.
Serve this delightful red lentil dal hot with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, and a dollop of cooling plain yogurt. Don't forget a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end—it brightens all the flavors and adds that perfect finishing touch to your comforting, wholesome meal.