Dive into the heart of Indian cuisine with our delightful Red Lentil Dal Soup—a dish that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! This creamy, flavorful soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein and fiber from the red lentils. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Ready to discover the secrets to making this comforting bowl of goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or impurities.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle turmeric and cumin into the pot, stirring to coat the onions and release the spices' aromatic oils.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and rinsed red lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lentils from sticking to the bottom.
- Once lentils are tender and have broken down, pour in the coconut milk and stir to create a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse the red lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a clean flavor.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less vegetable broth. For a lighter soup, feel free to add more broth or coconut milk.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with additional spices like coriander or a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick!
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, so don’t hold back on the garnish!
- Serve with Sides: Pair the soup with warm rice or naan bread to make a complete and satisfying meal.
- Make Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg
