Lentil and chickpea dhal

Savor the rich flavors of our Lentil and Chickpea Dhal, a perfect blend of savory lentils, chickpeas, aromatic onions, and ginger, simmered in curry paste and creamy coconut milk. This easy and nutritious recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy vegan meal, ready in no time!

09 Apr 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp peanut oil
1 onion
1 tsp ginger root
1/3 cup curry paste
1 can canned tomatoes
1 can canned lentils
1/3 can canned chickpeas
1 cup coconut milk
Lentil and chickpea dhal

Lentil and chickpea dhal is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the earthy textures of lentils and chickpeas with the rich, spicy notes of curry paste and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a wholesome meal, this dhal is easy to prepare and packed with protein, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and those looking to explore plant-based cuisine.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and grating the ginger root.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium heat.
3. Cook the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Add the Ginger: Stir in the grated ginger and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Incorporate Curry Paste: Add the curry paste to the pot and mix well with the onions and ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
6. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine with the curry paste, onions, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add Lentils and Chickpeas: Once the tomato mixture starts to simmer, add the drained and rinsed lentils and chickpeas. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
8. Pour in Coconut Milk: Gradually stir in the coconut milk. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the dhal thickens and all flavors are well combined, about 10-15 minutes.
9. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the dhal simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
10. Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve: Serve the dhal hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired. It pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or roti.

Tips:

- Prep Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are measured and prepped. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

- Sauté the Onions and Ginger: Make sure to sauté the chopped onion and ginger in peanut oil until they are soft and fragrant. This step enhances the flavors of the dish.

- Choose Your Curry Paste Wisely: The type of curry paste you use can significantly impact the flavor of your dhal. Feel free to use mild, medium, or hot curry paste based on your spice preference.

- Simmer Gently: Once all the ingredients are added, allow the dhal to simmer gently. This helps all the flavors meld together harmoniously.

- Adjust Consistency: If your dhal is too thick, you can add a little water or additional coconut milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer uncovered to thicken.

- Serve with Complementary Sides: Serve your lentil and chickpea dhal with warm naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Lentil and chickpea dhal is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side. With its rich flavors and balanced nutrition, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Feel free to customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy this delightful dish with naan or rice.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 14g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 14g
Sugar 10g
Fat 16g

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