Sweet potato and chickpea dhal

Sweet potato and chickpea dhal is a hearty, plant-based dish that combines sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and lentils in a richly spiced broth. Cooked with aromatic spices and finished with garnishes, it's perfect for a comforting meal.

08 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/3 can canned chickpeas
3 tsp olive oil
1 onion
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried coriander
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
1.50 cups canned lentils
4 cups vegetable broth
1 sweet potato

Sweet potato and chickpea dhal is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of sweet potatoes with the heartiness of chickpeas and lentils. This plant-based recipe is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dhal is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse and drain the chickpeas and lentils.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Peel and grate the ginger root.
- Peel the sweet potato and cut it into small cubes.

2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices:
- Heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, and dried coriander. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Chickpeas, Lentils, and Sweet Potato:
- Stir in the drained chickpeas and lentils.
- Add the cubed sweet potato to the pot.

4. Add Vegetable Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients.

5. Cook the Dhal:
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender and the flavors have melded together.

6. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the dhal and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.

7. Serve:
- Ladle the dhal into bowls.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy touch.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve the sweet potato and chickpea dhal with rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.

Your sweet potato and chickpea dhal is now ready to be enjoyed. This flavorful and wholesome dish is perfect on its own or served with rice or naan bread. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Enjoy the delightful blend of spices and the luxurious texture of the dhal!

Sweet potato and chickpea dhal FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover sweet potato and chickpea dhal?

Store leftover dhal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.

How can I tell when the sweet potato is properly cooked in the dhal?

The sweet potato is properly cooked when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes of simmering.

What can I substitute for chickpeas in this recipe?

You can substitute chickpeas with canned kidney beans or black beans if you prefer. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.

Can I make this dhal spicy?

Yes, you can make the dhal spicy by adding red chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies during the sautéing stage. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.

What size pot do I need for this recipe?

A large pot or Dutch oven is recommended for this recipe to allow enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly and prevent overflow while simmering.

Tips:

- Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas and lentils before using to remove excess sodium.

- Dice the sweet potato into small, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor, but ground options can be substituted in a pinch.

- Consider using an immersion blender to slightly blend the dhal for a creamier texture, but be careful not to over-process as you still want some texture from the chickpeas and lentils.

- Adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced chili pepper.

- Let the dhal simmer on low heat after adding all the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Garnish with fresh coriander or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness before serving.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 11g
Sugar 8g
Fat 5g

Sweet potato and chickpea dhal