Red Lentil Dahl

Let’s talk about my forever culinary crush: Red Lentil Dahl.

This red lentil dahl is packed with cozy spices and the kind of nourishing ingredients that make your body say, “thank you more please!”

I’ve been whipping this up on repeat lately because it checks all the boxes: it’s healthy, cozy for the fall & winter, very easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some serious nutrition into your day without overthinking it.

What makes this recipe a go-to for our family is its simplicity.

It’s a one-pot wonder and made with pantry staples like lentils, coconut milk, and spices. And if you cook at all, you probably also have an onion around your kitchen somewhere.

How this Lentil Dahl is different

This Lentil Dahl is NOT made with cumin. We are not big fans of cumin in this family (especially me – I actually have a dietary sensitivity to it), so basically any recipe that traditionally uses cumin, I either omit it and/or replace it with more of the other spices.

I’ve been making versions of Lentil Dahl that do contain cumin for the past 10 years (there is an instant pot version HERE on the blog), and this version is BY FAR my favorite.

If you want to add cumin, I would add 1/2 Tsp to this recipe, and if you love cumin, it’ll be fantastic! (The 1/2 tsp of curry powder in this recipe does have a bit of cumin in it depending on the blend you use).

The Power of Lentils and Fiber

Let’s take a moment to appreciate lentils. These tiny little powerhouses are PACKED with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, folate, and magnesium. Fiber is where it’s at when it comes to gut health and staying full for longer. If you’ve been feeling sluggish or want to boost your digestion, lentils are your new bestie. Plus, they’re low in calories, making them a fantastic addition to any diet.

Eating lentils regularly has been shown to help:

• Support heart health
• Lower cholesterol
• Improve digestion
• Keep blood sugar levels stable

They’re the MVP of plant-based eating, and in this recipe, they create the creamiest, dreamiest base for the perfect bowl of dahl.

The Health Boost from Spices

Now let’s talk about the spice magic. This recipe is like a wellness potion disguised as comfort food. Spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom don’t just add flavor—they bring serious health benefits.

• Turmeric: Famous for its anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to curcumin. It’s basically a superfood for your joints, skin, and immune system.
• Ginger: A digestive superhero that also helps reduce inflammation and boosts immunity.
• Cinnamon: Known to help regulate blood sugar and provide a hefty dose of antioxidants.
• Cardamom: A fragrant spice that supports healthy digestion and may even help with stress relief.

The best part? These spices don’t just make you feel amazing—they also make your kitchen smell divine.

Print

Red Lentil Dahl

Servings 2

Author Ashley Diana

INGREDIENTS

• 2 T Coconut oil optional OR choose to water sauté
• 1 Sweet Onion chopped
• 1/2 Tsp Ginger ground
• 1/2 Tsp Turmeric ground
• 1/2 Tsp Coriander ground
• 1/2 Tsp Curry ground
• 1/4 Tsp Cardamom ground
• 1/4 Tsp Cinnamon ground
• 1 & 1/2 Cups Veggie Broth
• 1 Cup Red Lentils uncooked
• 1 Can Coconut Milk unsweetened
• 4 T Tomato Paste
• 1/2+ Tsp Salt optional

DIRECTIONS

1. Using a medium size pot, sauté the onions in coconut oil or by water sautéing. About 5 minutes.

2. When onions are slightly translucent, add all spices. Stir for about 2 minutes.

3. Add veggie broth and lentils to the pot. Stir and bring to a boil.

4. Add coconut milk & stir. Cover with a lid, and lower heat to low/simmer.

5. Allow lentils to cook until very soft for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally.

6. Add tomato paste & salt if using. Stir and serve!

NOTE:

This could be for 4 people, but it would be smaller bowls. For us, this is for 2 people and we have a little leftover for a small serving the next day.