Dal is an Indian dish made from legumes, most often lentils. I love making lentil dal, because it is so simple and easy to make on a busy weekday, but it is also full of flavor and healthy too! My recipe for Dal is made using dried red lentils, but you could use green lentils or even split chickpeas. I always keep lentils in my pantry, and more specifically, I always keep red lentils in my pantry for quick easy meals. Red lentils tend to cook quicker than their green counterparts, making them perfect for a quick dinner when you’re in a rush. 

If you do use green lentils, you may find they have a more peppery flavor – which is perfect in Dal – and you may have to cook them slightly longer. Also, don’t forget to give your dried lentils a rinse in cold water before cooking with them. 

If you have a picky eater in your home like I do, you can chop you onions into larger pieces so they can be picked out (or you could be sneaky and chop them up super fine). You can also use more or less cayenne pepper to adjust the heat to your preference. 

3/4 Cup Red Lentils

2 Cups Water

2 Garlic Cloves, minced

1/2 Medium Onion, Diced

2 tsp Ginger, grated

1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper

1/2 tsp Turmeric

1/2 tsp Cumin

1/2 tsp Salt

1/4 Cup Cilantro, Chopped

In a medium sauce pan, mix all ingredients except the cilantro, together. 

Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir the cilantro into the Dal, then serve over rice.

Enjoy!