High Protein Spinach Dhal

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this hearty and nourishing High Protein Spinach Dhal, a flavorful twist on a classic Indian-inspired dish. Packed with protein-rich red lentils, vibrant spinach, and creamy coconut milk, this vegan recipe is both satisfying and wholesome. Aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and freshly grated ginger infuse every bite with irresistible warmth, while a splash of tangy lemon juice brightens the flavors. Ready in just 45 minutes, this one-pot wonder is perfect for meal prep or a comforting, quick dinner. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread for a complete, plant-powered meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Red lentils
• 2 cups Spinach
• 3 cups Water
• 1 cup Coconut milk
• 1 medium Onion
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 tablespoon Ginger
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Garam masala
• 0.5 teaspoon Chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Wash the spinach and chop it roughly if using fresh leaves.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds or until aromatic.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Add turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the spices.

Step 7

Add the rinsed lentils, water, and coconut milk. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Step 8

Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9

Once the lentils are tender, stir in the chopped spinach, salt, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 10

Taste the dhal and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Step 11

Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or flatbread for a complete vegan, high-protein meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1419.7 grams (1419.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	562

Total Fat 16.60g	21%
Saturated Fat 2.60g	13%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.50g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2522mg	110%
Total Carbohydrate 87.20g	32%
Dietary Fiber 21.60g	77%
Total Sugars 28.30g
Protein 22.90g	46%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 246mg	19%
Iron 13mg	72%
Potassium 1752mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 25.3%

Protein: 15.5%

Carbs: 59.1%