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Root Vegetable Dal

A comforting and nourishing dal made with lentils and root vegetables, flavored with spices. Vegan and gluten-free, perfect for busy nights.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian, Vegan
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 cup red split lentils, rinsed Ensure they are free from any impurities.
  • 1 cup finely diced root vegetables (carrots, celery root, beets) Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Offers juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds robust undertones.
  • 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced Provides a spicy kick.
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric Essential for traditional dal.
  • Pinch dried chili flakes Optional, for heat.
  • 3½ cups filtered water For soup base.
  • 2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil Lends creamy richness.
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds For a warm, nutty flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon coriander seeds Adds hint of citrus.
  • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds Introduces zest.
  • ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium soup pot, combine the rinsed lentils, diced root vegetables, diced onion, halved tomatoes, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground turmeric, and a pinch of chili flakes. Pour in the filtered water and stir gently.
Cooking
  1. Set the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Then reduce heat and simmer for about 40 minutes, whisking often to prevent sticking.
  2. In the last 10 minutes, whisk the dal vigorously to achieve a smooth consistency, and season with salt and pepper.
Spice Oil Preparation
  1. In a small sauté pan, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds; sauté until fragrant and popping.
Assembly
  1. Spoon the toasted spice oil over the dal. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

Rinse lentils thoroughly for cleaner flavor. Experiment with different root vegetables. Adjust spice levels as desired. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Consider batch cooking.