Yellow Lentil Dal
A simple, comforting lentil soup, seasoned with turmeric and cumin. It's light, nutritious, and comes together quickly, making it a perfect budget-friendly weeknight staple.
For 4 servings
Cook the lentils.
In a pressure cooker, combine the rinsed red lentils, water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
TIPIf you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the lentils in a pot on the stove for 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft and mushy.Prepare the aromatic base.
- While the lentils cook, heat the vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until the raw smell is gone.
Cook the tomato and combine.
- Add the chopped tomato to the pan with the onions. Cook until the tomato breaks down and becomes soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Once the lentils are cooked, open the pressure cooker and whisk them gently to get a smooth consistency.
- Pour the onion-tomato mixture into the cooked lentils and stir well to combine.
Simmer and serve.
Bring the dal to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving hot.
TIPThe dal will thicken as it cools. You can add a splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any dust and helps with digestion.
- 2For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the dal before adding the tempering.
- 3Don't overheat the oil when adding cumin seeds, as they can burn quickly and become bitter.
- 4This dal stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if needed.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add one finely chopped green chili along with the onions for a bit of heat.
healthyHealthy
To boost the fiber content, add a handful of chopped spinach to the dal during the final simmer until it wilts.
kid friendlyKid friendly
For a smoother consistency that kids might prefer, blend the entire dal after cooking until it's creamy.
quickQuick
Use canned, rinsed lentils instead of dry ones. Simply simmer them with the aromatic base for 10 minutes until heated through.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Red lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and building body tissues.
High in Dietary Fiber
The fiber in lentils supports digestive health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Iron
Lentils provide a good amount of iron, which is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. It's also naturally low in fat and gluten-free.