Go Back
To make a great Green Lentil Dal, you need: - 1 cup green lentils, rinsed - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1-inch piece of ginger, grated - 1 green chili, slit (adjust spice level to taste) - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon coriander powder - 1 tomato, diced - 3 cups vegetable broth (or water) - 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or ghee) - Salt to taste - Fresh cilantro for garnish - Lemon wedges for serving You can swap some ingredients to fit your taste. If you want a milder dal, skip the green chili. Instead, use a pinch of red chili powder. Want fewer carbs? Try using cauliflower rice instead of lentils. If you don’t have vegetable broth, water works just fine. For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of coconut oil. You can also add spinach or kale for extra greens. Green lentils are not just tasty; they’re also packed with nutrients. They are high in protein and fiber, making them great for a filling meal. Here are some key benefits: - Protein: Offers a great plant-based protein source. - Fiber: Aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. - Iron: Supports healthy blood flow and energy levels. - Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins, which help your body use energy. - Low in fat: A heart-healthy choice. Green lentils also help you stay full longer, making them a great option for hearty meals. Enjoy this perfect blend of taste and nutrition in your Green Lentil Dal! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To start, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you need: - 1 cup green lentils, rinsed - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1-inch piece of ginger, grated - 1 green chili, slit (adjust spice level to taste) - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon coriander powder - 1 tomato, diced - 3 cups vegetable broth (or water) - 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or ghee) - Salt to taste - Fresh cilantro for garnish - Lemon wedges for serving Next, rinse the lentils in cold water. This removes dust and helps them cook evenly. Chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Slit the green chili carefully to let its flavor infuse. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and clear, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Cook for 2 more minutes until the aroma fills the air. Next, add the ground turmeric, cumin, and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the onions. Toast the spices for a minute. Now, add the diced tomato. Cook until it softens, about 3 minutes. Pour in the rinsed green lentils and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it's bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are soft. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking. After cooking, taste and add salt as needed. If the dal is too thick, a splash of broth or water can help. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges. For the best texture, keep an eye on the lentils while they cook. Stir them often and check for doneness. If they seem too firm, add a little more broth. If they are too mushy, reduce the cooking time next time. Using fresh ingredients also boosts flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality spices and fresh herbs. This will make your green lentil dal taste even better! Check out the Full Recipe for more details and tips. When making green lentil dal, it's easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch for: - Not rinsing lentils: Always rinse your lentils before cooking. This helps remove dirt and debris. - Skipping the sauté: Sautéing the onion and spices adds depth. Don't rush this step. - Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked lentils can turn mushy. - Not seasoning enough: Taste as you go. Adding salt at the end can leave your dal bland. You can boost the flavor of your green lentil dal with a few easy tricks: - Fresh herbs: Add fresh cilantro or mint for a vibrant touch. - Acid: A dash of lemon juice brightens the dish. Try adding it just before serving. - Spices: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or garam masala for extra depth. - Coconut milk: For a creamy texture, stir in coconut milk near the end of cooking. Green lentil dal is a versatile dish. Here are some tasty serving ideas: - With rice: Serve it over basmati rice for a filling meal. - With bread: Pair it with naan or pita for a hearty experience. - With veggies: Add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables for balance. - As a soup: Thin it out with more broth for a cozy soup option. For the full recipe, check the Savory Green Lentil Dal section. {{image_2}} You can make Green Lentil Dal even better by adding vegetables. Carrots, spinach, and bell peppers work well. These veggies add flavor and nutrients. Just chop them up and add them when you mix in the tomatoes. Let them cook until tender. This adds color and makes your meal more filling. Not everyone likes the same spice level. If you want it mild, skip the green chili. For more heat, use two or three chilies. You can also add chili powder for extra kick. Adjusting spices can make your dal perfect for your taste. Remember, start small and add more as needed. You can cook Green Lentil Dal on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot. On the stovetop, it takes about 30 minutes to cook. This method allows you to stir and keep an eye on it. If you use an Instant Pot, it cooks faster, around 15 minutes. Just make sure to add enough liquid. Both methods result in a hearty meal, so choose what works for you! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To keep your green lentil dal fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool completely before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up. It’s best to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Proper storage keeps it tasty and safe to eat. If you follow these steps, your dal can last for about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Freezing is a great option if you want to save some dal for later. First, cool the dal completely before freezing. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags. Flatten the bags for easy stacking. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze green lentil dal for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour the dal into a pot. Heat it over low to medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Place the dal in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This will keep it warm and flavorful. For a tasty touch, add fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon before serving. Green Lentil Dal is a tasty dish made from green lentils. It is popular in Indian cuisine. Lentils are cooked with spices, onions, and tomatoes. This dish is rich in protein and fiber. You can enjoy it as a main course or a side. I love how it warms me up on chilly days. Green Lentil Dal can last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. The dal might thicken as it sits, so add water when reheating. This helps bring back the creamy texture. Yes, you can easily make Green Lentil Dal vegan. Just replace the coconut oil or ghee with any vegetable oil. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for more flavor. The recipe remains delicious and satisfying without animal products. You can serve Green Lentil Dal with rice or naan. It pairs well with yogurt, pickles, or a fresh salad. I enjoy it with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. You can also add a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing side. To make Green Lentil Dal spicier, add more green chilies. You can also use red chili powder for extra heat. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika. Just remember to adjust the spice level to your taste. For the full recipe, check the section above. This article covered key ingredients for making green lentil dal, including substitutions and health benefits. I shared detailed steps for preparing and cooking the dish to ensure the best texture. Tips on avoiding common mistakes and enhancing flavor were also provided. Green lentil dal can be varied with veggies and spices for unique flavors. Proper storage and reheating tips help maximize freshness. I hope these insights inspire you to cook and enjoy this nutritious dish!

Green Lentil Dal

Discover the deliciousness of Savory Green Lentil Dal with this easy-to-follow recipe! Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, this dal is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep. From sautéing onions to simmering lentils, you'll create a comforting dish in just 45 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon for an extra kick. Click to explore this delightful recipe and bring warmth to your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup green lentils, rinsed

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

1 green chili, slit (adjust spice level to taste)

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 tomato, diced

3 cups vegetable broth (or water)

2 tablespoons coconut oil (or ghee)

Salt to taste

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

    Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

      Add the ground turmeric, cumin, and coriander powder to the pot. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.

        Incorporate the diced tomato, cooking until it softens and combines with the spices, approximately 3 minutes.

          Pour in the rinsed green lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

            Once the lentils are cooked, season with salt to taste. If the dal is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

              Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and provide lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4