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Easy Red Lentil Dal (One-Pot Meal)

Easy Red Lentil Dal (One-Pot Meal)
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Easy Red Lentil Dal (One-Pot Meal) is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines the comforting essence of spiced red lentils with a creamy tomato base. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes using one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The rich flavors of aromatic spices like garam masala and turmeric meld beautifully with tender lentils and fresh spinach, creating a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Serve it alongside basmati rice or warm naan for an authentic experience. Enjoy this cozy dish that warms both the heart and soul!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander, ground
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric, ground
  • ½ teaspoon cumin, ground
  • 2 vine tomatoes, grated (or 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (up to 4 cups if needed – reduced-sodium)
  • 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
  • ½ cup half-and-half (or unsweetened oat cream)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt (or more to taste + black pepper)
  • 4 packed cups spinach
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 4 cups/servings cooked basmati rice (or naan bread + yogurt)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.
  2. Stir in grated garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, garam masala, coriander, turmeric, and cumin; cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Add grated tomatoes and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  4. Incorporate rinsed lentils and vegetable broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 15–20 minutes until lentils are soft.
  5. Stir in half-and-half or oat cream and spinach; cook for an additional minute until spinach wilts.
  6. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot with rice or naan.

Nutrition

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