This vibrant and hearty masoor dal is a perfect blend of red lentils, sweet potatoes, and a variety of fragrant spices, offering comfort and nourishment. The warm spices of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and ginger come together to create a flavorful dish that's both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether served as a main dish or a side, masoor dal is a cozy meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spiced red lentil recipe is packed with rich flavors and nutrients. The combination of sweet potatoes and red lentils offers a deliciously hearty texture, while the aromatic spices provide warmth and depth. It’s easy to make and a fantastic way to get a healthy dose of protein and fiber. Plus, it’s vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, making it a versatile dish for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 ½ cups finely diced sweet potato (about 1 medium)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Thai or bird's-eye red chili, finely diced (with seeds for extra heat)
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup canned chopped tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Fresh coconut shavings, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, heat oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, then reduce the heat to low.
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Add Spices and Lentils: Add the diced chili, red lentils, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and ground ginger to the pan. Stir well to coat the lentils and sweet potatoes in the oil and spices.
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Simmer the Dal: Add the chopped tomatoes and 4 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a fast simmer and cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
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Thicken and Season: Season with salt to taste and continue simmering for about 10 minutes, whisking the mixture to combine. If the dal is too soupy, increase the heat and cook until it thickens.
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Serve: Transfer the dal to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro, and add coconut shavings if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use Different Lentils: While red lentils work best for this recipe, you can experiment with yellow lentils or other types of dal.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili used. You can also omit it if you prefer a mild flavor.
- Topping Options: Top your dal with a dollop of coconut yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the dal to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water to loosen it up if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use yellow or green lentils, but red lentils work best for the texture and flavor in this recipe.
2. Is masoor dal spicy?
Masoor dal can be made spicy depending on the amount of chili you use. Adjust the heat to your preference.
3. Can I freeze masoor dal?
Yes, masoor dal freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make masoor dal without sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can omit the sweet potatoes or replace them with other vegetables like carrots, butternut squash, or cauliflower.
5. What can I serve with masoor dal?
Masoor dal pairs well with rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a simple cucumber salad.
6. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add more chilies or even some cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan.
8. How can I make masoor dal thicker?
If your dal is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also mash some of the lentils for a creamier texture.
9. Can I add coconut milk to masoor dal?
Yes, adding coconut milk will give the dal a creamy texture and enhance the flavor. Add it after the dal has finished cooking.
10. How do I prevent my lentils from overcooking?
To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the dal during the simmering process and taste it once the lentils are tender. If it’s cooked to your liking, stop simmering.
Conclusion
Masoor dal is a versatile, comforting dish full of flavor and nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or alongside rice or bread, it’s an easy-to-make, healthy dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its combination of earthy lentils, sweet potatoes, and fragrant spices, it’s a deliciously warming meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Masoor Dal
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant and hearty Masoor Dal (Spiced Red Lentils) combines red lentils, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it is a versatile and delicious vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian dish. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe is easy to make and offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Whether served as a main dish or a side, Masoor Dal is a comforting option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
ngredients:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 ½ cups finely diced sweet potato (about 1 medium)
- 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Thai or bird's-eye red chili, finely diced (with seeds for extra heat)
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup canned chopped tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Fresh coconut shavings, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Instructions:
-
Sauté Vegetables: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, heat oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, then reduce the heat to low.
-
Add Spices and Lentils: Add the diced chili, red lentils, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and ground ginger to the pan. Stir well to coat the lentils and sweet potatoes in the oil and spices.
-
Simmer the Dal: Add the chopped tomatoes and 4 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a fast simmer and cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
-
Thicken and Season: Season with salt to taste and continue simmering for about 10 minutes, whisking the mixture to combine. If the dal is too soupy, increase the heat and cook until it thickens.
-
Serve: Transfer the dal to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro, and add coconut shavings if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Variations: You can add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili to your desired heat. You can omit it for a milder version.
- Topping Options: Add a dollop of coconut yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
