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Lentil Spinach Dal

This lentil spinach dal is a hearty and comforting dish that features tender, creamy lentils simmered with fragrant spices and finished with fresh spinach. The dish has a velvety texture with vibrant green leaves and a bright, lemony zing, served warm with a thick, flavorful broth. It’s a simple, nourishing meal perfect for cozy evenings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dry red lentils rinsed
  • 4 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch ginger grated
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 whole lemon juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
  • to taste salt
  • to taste chili flakes optional

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Place them in a medium pot with water or broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the lentils are soft and creamy, stirring occasionally.
  2. While the lentils cook, heat olive oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. The kitchen will fill with a warm, sweet aroma.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant and tender.
  5. Mix in turmeric and coriander powders, stirring for 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils and deepen the spice flavor.
  6. Pour the cooked lentils and their cooking liquid into the skillet. Stir well to combine all the flavors and let it simmer for 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
  7. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted and bright green, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture will turn vibrant and slightly thickened.
  8. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir to brighten the flavors. Taste and add salt and chili flakes as desired.
  9. Cook for another minute to blend all flavors, then turn off the heat. The dal should be warm, creamy, and bursting with fresh and earthy aromas.
  10. Serve the lentil spinach dal hot, accompanied by naan, rice, or crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding chopped tomatoes or a handful of cooked chickpeas for extra protein. Adjust spices to suit your taste, and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.