Traditional Dhall

Dive into the heartwarming flavors of **Traditional Dhall**, a classic South Asian comfort food that's both nourishing and packed with aromatic spices. This recipe features tender split red lentils simmered with earthy turmeric, then elevated by a vibrant tempering of cumin, mustard seeds, garlic, and ginger. A touch of garam masala and fresh cilantro brings a fragrant depth to every spoonful, while a splash of lemon juice adds a burst of freshness. Perfectly customizable, this dhall pairs beautifully with steamed rice or warm naan for a wholesome, gluten-free, and plant-based meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot wonder is a healthy, flavorful option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup split red lentils
• 4 cups water
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch piece ginger, minced
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cumin powder
• 0.5 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the split red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, combine the lentils, 3 cups of water, turmeric, and half a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and mushy.

Step 3

While the lentils are cooking, in a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds to the hot oil. Fry them until the mustard seeds start to pop.

Step 5

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the slit green chili and chopped tomato, and cook until the tomato softens, about 3 minutes.

Step 8

Mix in the coriander powder, cumin powder, and remaining salt. Stir well and cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 9

Pour this sautéed mixture into the saucepan with cooked lentils. Stir everything together and add more water to adjust the consistency to your preference if needed.

Step 10

Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Stir in the garam masala and lemon juice.

Step 11

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your dhall with warm rice or bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1512.5 grams (1512.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1083

Total Fat 31.10g	40%
Saturated Fat 4.50g	23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2433mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 154.80g	56%
Dietary Fiber 28.80g	103%
Total Sugars 15.00g
Protein 57.10g	114%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 297mg	23%
Iron 21mg	117%
Potassium 2729mg	58%

*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: 24.8%

Protein: 20.3%

Carbs: 54.9%