20 Dal Indian Vegetarian Lentils Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 29, 2024
The dal Indian vegetarian lentils recipe is a staple in Indian cuisine and a favorite among vegetarians. This delicious and nutritious dish is made with lentils, a variety of spices, and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Not only is it easy to make, but it is also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this traditional Indian dish and explore its health benefits.
Main Ingredients: Urad Dal, Channa Dal, Dal, Mustard Oil, Garlic, Green
Looking for a new twist on your favorite Indian dishes? These creamy spiced Indian lentils will have your taste buds dancing. Made with a blend of spices and creamy lentils, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish at your next dinner party.
Take a trip to the southern region of India with this delicious vegetable curry. Packed with a variety of vegetables and a blend of spices, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious. Serve it over a bed of rice or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish.
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South Indian Coconut Rice
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Basmati Rice, Light Coconut Milk, Mustard
If you're a fan of coconut, then this South Indian coconut rice is a must-try. Fragrant basmati rice is cooked in coconut milk and a blend of spices, creating a creamy and flavorful dish. Pair it with your favorite curry or enjoy it as a side dish.
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Coconut Rice, South Indian Style
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Vegetable Oil, Coconut Milk, Mustard
Coconut rice is a staple in South Indian cuisine, and for good reason. This dish is simple, yet bursting with flavor. The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a creamy and aromatic rice dish that will leave you wanting more.
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South Indian Cabbage Dal, Cabbage Kootu
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Pigeon Peas, Pink Lentils, Turmeric, Curry
This South Indian cabbage dal, also known as cabbage kootu, is a hearty and comforting dish. Made with a blend of lentils, cabbage, and a variety of spices, this dish is perfect for a chilly day or when you're craving some traditional Indian flavors.
Adai is a popular South Indian dish that is similar to a dosa crepe. Made with a combination of lentils and rice, this dish is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve it with your favorite chutney or enjoy it as is.
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Butternut Squash Kootu-South Indian Fusion
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Onion, Green Chilies, Curry Leaves
This butternut squash kootu is a fusion of South Indian and Western flavors. Made with butternut squash, lentils, and a blend of spices, this dish is a delicious and unique way to enjoy the flavors of South India.
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Mouthwatering Vegetarian Food of Beautiful South...
Main Ingredients: Salt, Turmeric Powder, Coconut Oil, Pumpkin, Yam, Dal
The southern region of India is known for its mouthwatering vegetarian food, and for good reason. With a wide variety of dishes made with lentils, vegetables, and a blend of spices, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From creamy curries to crispy dosas, the flavors of South India are sure to leave you wanting more.
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Homemade Sambar Powder (South Indian Curry Powder)
Main Ingredients: Coriander Seeds, Dal, Channa Dal, Fenugreek Seeds, Urad
Spice up your cooking with this homemade sambar powder. This South Indian curry powder is a blend of various spices, including coriander, cumin, and red chili, and is commonly used in many South Indian dishes. Make a batch and keep it on hand for all your flavorful cooking needs.
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Radish Sambhar
Main Ingredients: Dal, Salt, Turmeric Powder, Radish, Tomato, Vegetable
For a unique twist on traditional sambhar, try this radish sambhar. Made with a variety of vegetables, lentils, and a blend of spices, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy it as a soup or serve it over rice for a hearty meal.
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Slow Cooker Red Lentil Soup (Dal)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Olive Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Turmeric
If you're looking for a simple and comforting dish, this slow cooker red lentil soup, also known as dal, is the perfect choice. Just throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook to perfection. Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish.
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Chana Dhal-Indian Style Lentils
Main Ingredients: Dhal, Turmeric Powder, Cinnamon Stick, Onion, Serrano
Chana dhal is a popular dish in India and is made with split chickpeas, also known as chana dal. This dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Serve it over rice or enjoy it as a hearty soup.
Yellow lentils, also known as moong dal, are a staple in Indian cuisine. This dish is simple yet flavorful, made with lentils, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Enjoy it as a side dish or add it to your favorite curry for a protein-packed meal.
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Dal Panchratan / Pancharatni (Dal Curry with Five...
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Moong Dal, Urad Dal, Masoor Dal
Dal panchratan, also known as pancharatni, is a flavorful dal curry made with a blend of five different lentils. This dish is a popular choice for special occasions and is often served with rice and naan bread. Try it for yourself and experience the unique flavors of this dish.
Methi dal, also known as fenugreek dal, is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is commonly enjoyed in Indian households. Made with a combination of lentils and fenugreek leaves, this dish is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
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Rava Idli
Main Ingredients: Rava, Mustard Seeds, Cumin Seeds, Asafoetida, Dal, Urad
Rava idli is a popular South Indian breakfast dish that is made with semolina and spices. These steamed cakes are soft and fluffy, making them a perfect breakfast option. Serve them with your favorite chutney or enjoy them with a cup of chai.
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Langarwali Dal In Slow Cooker
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Dal, Water, Salt, Haldi, Ginger, Cilantro
For a truly authentic Indian dish, try this langarwali dal in your slow cooker. This dish is commonly served in Sikh temples as a part of langar, a free meal service for all. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dal with some rice or naan bread.
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Simple Khichdi-Panchratna Dal Khichdi
Main Ingredients: Dal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Salt, Turmeric Powder
Khichdi is a simple and comforting dish made with rice, lentils, and a variety of vegetables. This version, made with panchratna dal, or five lentils, is packed with protein and flavor. Enjoy it as a one-pot meal or as a side dish.
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Yellow Moong Dal
Main Ingredients: Dal, Turmeric Powder, Ghee, Cumin Seeds, Garlic, Medium
Yellow moong dal, also known as mung dal, is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a soup or as a side dish. This dish is made with split yellow lentils, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, making it both delicious and nutritious.
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Green Moong Dal Fry
Main Ingredients: Dal, Green Chilli, Onion, Tomato, Ginger Garlic Paste
Green moong dal fry is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Made with green lentils, onions, and a blend of spices, this dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
Ingredients and Preparation
Lentils
To start, you will need 1 cup of red lentils, which can be found in most grocery stores. Rinse the lentils in cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the lentils in water for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking to help them soften.
Spices
The key to the flavorful taste of dal is the spices used. The main spices include cumin seeds, mustard seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. You will also need garlic, ginger, onion, and tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
Tadka (Tempering)
Tadka, also known as tempering, is an essential step in making dal. It involves frying spices in oil to release their flavors before adding them to the lentils. For this recipe, you will need ghee, red chili powder, and asafetida (hing) for tadka.
Instructions
1. Heat a pot or pressure cooker on medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of ghee.
2. Once the ghee is hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add 1 chopped onion to the pot and cook until it becomes translucent.
4. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Cook for another minute.
5. Add 1 chopped tomato and cook until it becomes soft and mushy.
6. Next, add 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of red chili powder. Stir well.
7. Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pot. Mix well with the spices.
8. Pour in 3 cups of water and stir. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 3 whistles. If using a pot, cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are fully cooked.
9. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee and add a pinch of asafetida (hing). Once it starts to sizzle, add it to the cooked lentils.
10. Give the dal a good stir and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
11. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Health Benefits
Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a great addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. They also contain important vitamins and minerals such as iron, folate, and magnesium.
Spices used in dal, such as cumin and coriander, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit overall health.
Turmeric, a common spice used in dal, has been linked to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and may even have anticancer effects.
By using ghee instead of oil, this recipe provides a healthier source of fat and adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.
In conclusion, the dal Indian vegetarian lentils recipe not only tastes delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavors of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your own home.