This delicious Red Lentil Dahl recipe is ready in just 25 minutes in 1-pot!
It’s one of my all time favourite dishes, and hundreds of readers agree with 5 star ratings!
It’s a comforting Indian curry that’s naturally vegan and gluten free.
Red Lentil Dahl
I love lentil dahl (or is it dal, dhal, daal?).
Plus, you can make it on the stovetop, slow cooker or Instant Pot (scroll down for instructions for all three methods).
It’s a great midweek meal or alternative homemade Indian curry. Gluten free, vegan and vegetarian.
It’s also freezer-friendly. Under 300 calories.
Stovetop, Instant Pot and Slow Cooker methods given.
As soon as my husband mentions wanting a curry, I know exactly what I’ll be having – red lentil dahl.
I’ve tweaked and changed this dal recipe over the years and I’ve finally settled on this combination as my absolute favourite.
It’s comfort food at it’s finest.
I always make a big batch and keep a stash of this vegan lentil curry in the freezer for super-quick midweek meals that the whole family loves.
You’ll also find loads of other great curry recipes over on Jamie Oliver.
I love to serve this lentil dahl curry with rice or my super easy naan bread recipe (just 4 ingredients and 15 minutes for homemade naan bread, plus it’s yeast-free and easily vegan or gluten free).
This dhal recipe was originally posted 2016. Updated with new photos, step by step images and updated text on 27 August 2018.
Reader Reviews for my Dahl Recipe
Loads of you have been making this recipe! Here are some reader testimonials
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved this dhal recipe and so did my husband and 18 month old son! I will be making this again and again and again. ‘ – Emily
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This is one of the best dhal recipes I have come cross in recent years. It is so simple but so tasty.’ – Michiko
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The best Dhal recipe I’ve ever eaten was absolutely delicious’ – Sean
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Delicious dahl recipe! Will be making over and over again!’ – Betty
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I just made this and all the comments are so justly deserved – it was my first time making Daal and this recipe is phenomenal! ‘ – Joanne
Dhal Recipe
A lentil dahl recipe doesn’t always have tomatoes in it, but I like how the acidity from the tomatoes cuts through the coconut milk so it has more depth of flavour rather than sweetness.
It’s mildly spiced with a gentle heat from the spices, chillis and ginger.
I’ve added two big handfuls of fresh spinach at the end because meals need green veg – and it’s perfect with this dhal recipe
Tips and tricks for this Lentil Dhal Recipe
- Do I use dried red lentils? Yes. No need to pre-cook them (just give them a rinse), they’ll cook in the curry.
- If you have more time, let the onions cook longer in the pan for a more fragrant dahl.
- Do the red lentils need to be pre-soaked? No, just add them dry! Though you’ll want to rinse them first.
- If you don’t have all the spices, just add 3 tsp of Garam Masala (an easy-t0-find dried Indian spice blend that’s in most grocery stores).
Serving Suggestions
- How to serve this Indian dhal recipe? Serve it as a lentil curry with rice and/0r naan bread, or as a side dish alongside another curry.
- Try this served with my baked vegetable pakora or turmeric roasted cauliflower.
- Try it with a few other curries for a party – tofu curry, chickpea curry or others!
Freezing and storage tips
- Yes! Let it cool and freeze in portions for up to 3 months. I love keeping a stash of portions in my freezer for quick curry nights!
- How long does red lentil dahl last? Dhal will last in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Special Diets
- Can I make this dhal vegan? This daal is naturally vegan and gluten free.
- This daal is dairy free, eggless and gluten-free.
- How many calories are in lentil dhal? Each portion of this has only 293 calories.
- How many Weight Watchers points per portion of this daal recipe? 12 smart points
Instant Pot and Slow Cooker
- Wondering how to make Instant Pot dal? Scroll down to the recipe card for my IP pressure cooker instructions.
- More time on your hands and want to make a Slow Cooker Dal? Scroll to the recipe card to find out how to make this a slow cooker lentil dal.
Making the Red Lentil Dahl Recipe
This dhal can be on the table in 30 minutes and is perfect along with naan bread (my easy naan recipe takes just minutes and is soooo good!) turmeric rice, chapattis or poppadoms. Perhaps some vegetable samosas or onion bhajis.
You could even try it with my vegetable pakoras – they’re also quick to make and full of nourishing ingredients.
A great thing about this dish is how you can adapt it to suit your taste.
Add more chilli if you like the heat, or more coconut milk if you want it extra creamy.
How to make Red Lentil Dal on the stovetop (step by step tutorial)
Scroll down for the full recipe, plus how to make it in the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker.
This daal is really easy to make. If you can spare a bit more time, then I’d suggest you slowly cook the onions for about 10 minutes until soft but not too brown. Then also simmer the dal a little longer.
But if you don’t have time then it’s also great with the method below! (I usually make it the quicker way!)
1: Cook the onions in the oil until soft, then add the garlic and chilli (fresh finely diced chilli or dried chilli flakes).
2: Lightly grind the cumin seeds, mustard seeds and coriander seeds in a mortar and pestle.
3: Add the ground spices, as well as garam masala and turmeric to the pan, stir and cook for 1 minute.
4: Add the stock/broth, canned tomatoes, dry red lentils and coconut milk, stir well and simmer.
5: Simmer until thick, about 15-20 minutes.
6: Add the spinach and lemon juice. Stir to wilt the spinach. Serve the dal recipe!
Make it a full meal with these vegan Indian recipes!
Lentil Dahl (the recipe you’re reading!)
Turmeric Rice (vegan, 6 ingredients, 20 minutes)
Baked Vegetable Pakora (vegan, 6 ingredients, 25 minutes)
Naan (vegetarian or vegan, 4 ingredients, 15 minutes)
Get the Red Lentil Dahl recipe
Thanks for checking out my recipe! I love hearing from my readers.
You all allow me to do what I love and write this UK food blog, sharing vegetarian recipes, vegan recipes, vegetable cake recipes, vegan cake and also easy vegan desserts.
Kate x
💚Did you make this red lentil dahl recipe? Please let me know how it turned out for you!
Leave a comment and star rating below and share a picture with the hashtag #veggiedesserts. I love seeing your recreations of my vegetarian and vegan recipes and cakes.💚
Red Lentil Dahl
Ingredients
- 1 tsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 2 onions diced
- 3 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger peeled and grated
- ½ finely chopped red chilli (or 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes)
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp coriander seeds
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- 2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 cup (200g) dried red lentils, uncooked (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can (14oz/400ml) chopped tomatoes
- 1 can (14oz/400ml) coconut milk
- 2 cups (500ml) vegetable broth/stock
- Salt and pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
- 2 handfuls fresh spinach washed
Instructions
Stovetop One-Pot Lentil Dahl
- Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook gently for 5 minutes. Add the garlic, ginger and red chilli and cook for a few minutes.
- Grind the cumin, coriander and mustard seeds lightly in a pestle and mortar, then add to the pan, along with the turmeric and garam masala and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the lentils, tomatoes with their juice, coconut milk and broth/stock, then stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper and cook on a medium/low heat for 15-20 minutes until reduced and thick. If you have time, you can leave it a little longer on a very low heat for even more flavor (just stir often and check it doesn't scorch on the bottom of the pan).
Taste and add more chilli if desired. - Stir in the lemon juice and spinach until it wilts.
- Serve warm with rice, naan bread or poppadoms.
Instant Pot Lentil Dahl
- Set the Instant Pot to 'saute' setting and heat the oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring, for about 4 minutes until it gets soft but not browned.
- Add the garlic, ginger and red chilli and cook for a minute, then turn off the Instant Pot.
- Grind the cumin, coriander and mustard seeds lightly in a pestle and mortar, then add to the pan, along with the turmeric and garam masala and cook, stirring, for 1 minute (there will be enough heat left in the Instant Pot to do this).
- Stir in the lentils, tomatoes, coconut milk and broth/stock.
- Put the lid on the Instant Pot, close the steam vent and set to Manual (Pressure Cook)/High Pressure pressure using the manual setting, then set the time to 8 minutes. After the time is up, wait for 10 minutes and then carefully use the quick release valve to release remaining pressure, or let the pressure release naturally.
Stir in the lemon juice and the spinach until it wilts and serve!
Slow Cooker Lentil Dahl Recipe
- Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook gently for 5 minutes. Add the garlic, ginger and red chilli and cook for a few minutes.
- Grind the cumin, coriander and mustard seeds lightly in a pestle and mortar, then add to the frying pan, along with the turmeric and garam masala and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the onion mixture to the bowl of the slow cooker, along with the lentils, tomatoes, coconut milk and broth/stock. Place lid on slow cooker and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 8-10 hours.
- Taste and cook longer if necessary for the lentils to be lovely and soft. Season with salt and pepper and stir in the lemon juice and spinach.
Recipe Tips
- This dhal is vegan and gluten free
- The squeeze of lemon really freshens the dal so try not to omit it
- Freezable - just let it cool completely and then freeze. Defrost and reheat. I freeze this often and it's a staple in my freezer for quick, hearty nourishing meals.
- No need to cook the red lentils first. Just rinse the dried red lentils before adding to the pan.
- This is a great vegan potluck food and is always a crowd pleaser!
Joanna
I did the easy 3tsp of garam masala version. Really easy, unbelievably delicious. First time took longer to thcken -still delicious. Second time did 11/2 cups of lentils so was thicker. Can’t believe how good this tastes. Wish I’d found it years ago. I’m probably going to live off this for a couple of weeks (or until it comes out of my ears). The naan bread is really easy too. Do try this. I can’t recommend it highly enogh. Oh, and I am rubbish in the kitchen – just followed the instructions.
Sue
By far THE best Dhal recipe ever! I’ve shared it so much and everyone loves it. I personally have made it more than 20 times now and it has never let me down
Nick
I have never tried lentils before and had dismissed them. However I had been looking at ways in reducing my meat intake and this recipe ticked all the boxes. Easy, tasty meat free and you can freeze the leftovers!!! Never thought I would rave about a vegetarian dish, but I am hooked. Thank you.
Susan Dubose
I have shared this recipe with all my daughters, it has become a family favourite. Thank you!
Brittany
Ummm. This was such a nice dish. The flavors were so perfectly balanced! This is now in my arsenal of “go to” recipes!
I didn’t have mustard seed so I used mustard powder (less than the amount seeds called for). Otherwise I followed the recipe exactly. It was perfection.
I did the fast version but let it simmer as we are and cleaned up dinner. Now all of those flavors have mingled and I can’t help have a taste or two as I portion it off for fast freezer food.
PS. My 7, 6, and 2 year olds all gobbled it up too.
Lynne
Love love love this recipe nothing changed at all!
Lydia
Highly recommended this recipe. I add carrot, sweet potato and cauliflower while it is simmering and then at the end I added kale, spinach and peas. Fabulous
Meaghan
I love this easy to follow recipe! I find it quite healing and gentle on my gut and have been making it for my dad who suffers from diverticulitis. Thanks for sharing!!!
jill brock
This is excellent!
Christel
What a great recipe! Easy, quick and so flavourful.
Von
Senbloominsational
L
I made this dish last night the only thing I did differently was to add sweet potato, carrot and cauliflower while it was simmering and then at the end I added peas and kale. Fabulous!
Anne P
Absolutely loved this dish!! My husband and I loved it. Will definitely make it again, maybe even tomorrow!!
Anne Thomson
Loved this recipe. Have been looking at more recipies without meat and I will certainly make this on a regular basis. I love Dhal and this is one of the nicest I have tasted even although I have tasted it in India and Sri Lanka. Just the correct amount of spiciness. Having to restrain myself from having another helping.
Natasha
Delicious and so easy!
Lesley
Love love love this recipe. I always make double the amount and freeze it.
Clare Patton
This is one of the best dhal recipes I have made. A lovely combination of spices with the addition of spinach really works well. The whole family enjoyed will definitely be making again. Thank you
Anna Lindström
Simply the best – I have done it so many times and I just love it.
Nathalie
Excellent flavour and texture. So simple to make yet so tasteful. Next time i’d try adding some paneer.
Anne
We all loved it and it kept for a few days in the fridge and freezes well too. Fab!
Donna
Thank you so much! I love this recipe, it has become a staple and I love to serve it with jacket potatoes. Yummy.
Patricia
Delicious and super easy to make. I let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Jess Howse
So good! 💛
Mark Barnett
Delicious. Has become a family favourite
Tracy Marsh
This was simple to make and tasted fantastic. I’ve added it to my regular go to meals list. Thank you so much for sharing the recipe.
Alice
Best daal recipe I have ever tasted, reminded me of the stuff I had in India! Great work and thank you so much for sharing!!
Claire Wood
Thanks so much, just made your Dahl and it went down a treat. Will definitely make it again.
Debbie
Can you replace seeds with ground spices?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi, yes that would be fine!
Sean O'Kane
Did it i the slow cooker and it’s definitely 5*s!
Katie
Have found the perfect go to lentil dhal recipe! Friends and me enjoyed this last night for dinner, it was a huge hit! Followed the recipe as given and it turned out great!
Jon Rawson
Absolutely awesome flavour. This will be going in my campervan recipe book.
Christine matheson
I’ve cooked this amazing Red Lentil Dhal recipie sooooo many times, to have on it’s own with rice or home made nan bread or even organic tortillas. Or to compliment other curries for friends who come around. My son and daughter cook it regularly to, my son lives in Dubai and my daughter in Lisbon. When they cook it they whatsap me to say ‘cooked your red lentil dahl tonight’ which is a great compliment to your recipe.
Kate Hackworthy
Oh that is so lovely!! My sisters and I always whatsapp each other when we cook Irish potato farls and my mum’s stuffing recipe. I”m so thrilled that your family does that for my dahl recipe. Thanks so much for coming to comment. K x
Andy Holmes
5 stars, tried this and it is superb, so tasty even though I left out the coconut milk. Have some left over so looking forward to it again with some fried paneer and roti. Will be adding to my recipes for future use. Many Thanks
Anonymous
WOW! It is very simple to make (specially with the Instant Pot) and so yummy!!
Jood Duncan
This is the best dal recipe I’ve ever used. It is delicious. I followed the recipe, which is pretty much a first, but added some methi leaves, just because I like them and I could. We’re omnivores, so it was a side dish, but it would certainly work as a main course. I’m glad I made more than needed because I’ve a stash in the freezer now. My previous favourite, still up there, involves moong beans. I might try to adapt. Thank you, Kate.
Cara
So easy, flavourful and satisfying! I used a larger can of tomatoes and left out the stock and the result was creamy and yummy!
cath
Comfort food indeed. Thanks for this wonderful recipe. I have learnt that time is a vital ingredient. The slow cooked version is so delicious.
And while I have the time and this dish is lightly bubbling in the background as we speak, I thought I might comment on your question at the beginning of your article, dal or dhal or daal or what?
I would say it is spelled ‘daal,’ which simply is the Hindi word for lentil. They have their own writing system and there are indeed letters which are transcribed using an h, but this is not the case here. So d rather than dh. And it is long a (often transcribed as aa) rather than short a. So ‘daal,’ which beautifully reads दाल in their script. But I guess this is not the place to discuss linguistics 😉 and I won’t blame anyone for writing it as they please.
Anyway, definitely a lovely dish and so easy to make. Thanks so much! Time for another stir, I guess…
Vicky B
This is simple, tasty and enjoyed by all my family, I have made this time and time again, brilliant!
I’d love it if there was a veggie ‘desserts’ regular cook book, so many great savoury recipes are on this site!!
Brenda Walker
Greatest Dhal recipe
Easy and wholesome
Jennifer White
Beautiful ❤️😍¡
Tanya Wan Lim
Best Dahl recipe I’ve come across!!
Emily
This was such an excellent and delicious recipe. Will be making this again many times!
I used peas as didn’t have any spinach, it worked but will try with spinach next time!
Tracy
The best Dahl recipe we’ve ever tried! We have made many, over the years, but the spice combo in this one is perfect. My kids ask for it! I add in whatever vegetables we have laying around (today was courgettes, carrots, potatoes and peas) while sauteéing but after the onions, garlic ginger and spices. One minute with the hand blender after cooking for the desired consistency, and viola! Perfectly nourishing fast-food. Thanks so much!
Deborah
This recipe for dahl looks good and tastes delicious. It’s interesting to prepare and cook and was enjoyed by all!
Iryna
Hello and thank you! I just made this delicious dal which is not dull at all. I added a dollop of plain yogurt on the top of my dal to help with the spice – this is how we like our dals 🙂 Easy, healthy and immensely satisfying. Lovely recipe!
June Sutton
made it 2 or 3 times so far, and making it again today, lovely recipe to have with rice or a different curry. very easy to follow instructions , Thank you
Martin
My first dhal
Turned out scrumptious
tracy
OMG my Mum cooked this for me…. I’m 53… yes still spoilt I know but she was visiting and my daughter and I pretty much ate ¾’s of it by ourselves. Was so delicious and that lovely earthy (not the flavour), nourishing feeling when you ate it. Now a staple in my house… yes, I do cook it myself.
Melanie
I love this recipe! I added a couple of grated carrots, along with the lentils, for extra goodness!
Wong
Super fragrant and easy to make for a mid-week dinner when you just need a dependable recipe that will yield more than 2 servings! All the ingredients were already in my kitchen, so this was perfect.
Toophat
Amazing and super tasty easy Dal recipe.
Caroline
So delicious and easy to make!
Jackie Kerkham
I’ve never had any success making Dhal before. This recipe is great the creaminess of the coconut with the nutty lentils is lovely. I cooked it slower, lower and longer than the method suggests just because it fitted in with what I was doing
Sharon
Love dhal but any substitutes for the coconut milk – could you use yoghurt and would it freeze?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Sharon. You could definitely use yogurt, but when freezing it might ‘split’.
Julie R
Really enjoyed this recipe will be making this often. great warmer for a winter night. Thanks
Denise
We are trying to eat less meat but find it hard to get good vegetarian receipts, tried the Red Lentil Dhal and will
Definitely be making it again, really lovely.
Thank you
Sally
Just tried your recipe – everyone loved it and my 18 year old son even asked for the recipe!
Gaye
First time ever making dhal and this was wonderful!
Andrew
Simply delicious, no need to change anything
Cate
Amazing!! The tastiest home made curry, I will be making it again!!
Sue Deakin
I’ve made this loads of times and is definitely my favourite dhal recipe
Sondra Balston
Absolutely delish receipe…I decreased the onion and used serrano peppers since that is all I had and it was still really good. I will make this again soon. We served it with some homemade onion bahje’s(sp).
Anne-Marie
I love this Dahl! And so does everyone in my family, from the meat-lovers, to the vegetarians and the kids! I go a little easy on the hot pepper flakes, and omit the coconut milk (not everyone is a fan). Based on other recipes I saw, I cook the lentils separately for 20 minutes, in stock and some of the tomato juice from the can. I start the onions in olive oil, but after adding all of the spices I add a tablespoon of coconut oil. It seems to give just enough coconut fragrance without overpowering the other flavours. I’ve also served with chunks of feta to rave reviews. Thank you for introducing us to Dahl, it’s a new-found favourite!
Astrid Bowman
I’ve made this recipe so often I don’t need to look at it anymore! It’s a firm favourite of ours. I normally do a big bath and we have it for lunch during the week. I normally cook some chicken breast in and shred the meat when cooked. I also add my lemon once it off the heat and for an extra kick I also grate in the lemon rind!
Louisa
Amazing!
Barbara More
Brilliant recipe. So tasty and very easy. Thank you for sharing it.
Deborah
Very tasty Dahl, enjoyed by all the family. Very easy and enjoyable to make. Definitely a favourite meal to cook again and again.
Faridah Brooker
I tried it as I happened to have all the ingredients and it was absolutely delicious. So easy to make and I will definitely be making it again. I have given the recipe to 2 others as it was so lovely. Thank you.
Liz
The most delicious dahl I have ever tasted. Everyone who has tried it raves about how tasty it is.
Rhys
My wife is the chef of the house but it was mother’s day and I was tasked with making dinner. I made this Dahl and all 6 of us loved it. So easy and so delicious. Thanks for the recipe
Patricia Jackson
Love it, brilliant can’t make it fast enough, grandchildren think I am a shop 5 srars
Arlene
Truly deserving of all the accolades associated with this recipe. Undoubtedly the best and easiest recipe to pull together with guaranteed results! This one’s a keeper!!!
Melanie Herry
My family of 7 can never agree on a meal… until I made this. Loved by all adults, youth, and even down to toddlers. I doubled the recipe,and just about had to scrape to pot. I was a bit thrown by a “can” of chopped tomatoes, could you add a more specific ml? Thank you from Ottawa, Canada.
Bryn
You may have been confused since the page not only lays out the steps to make this informally as a rough description, but at the very bottom there is also a formal recipe which calls for 1 can (14oz/400ml) of chopped tomatoes. I was also confused about how much tomatoes as well until I saw that.
Suz
Trying this for the first time (but with frozen spinach) and it has turned out pretty well.
Thanks for the recipe.
Mo
Yummmmmmmmmm!!!!
New staple in my house. Just feel so nourished after eating it. Thank you
KP
Amazing recipe, all the family love it. We have it with the home made naan which is easy and delicious
Ruth
Fantastic recipe. Very forgiving. It has consistently come out well and I have trouble keeping up with supply and demand in my house! Can’t recommend it highly enough.
Penny
love this recipe, my daughter has just turned vegan and its her favourite dinner
Kendrick
I have tried lots of Dahl recipes and this is one of the best, with very subtle tastes – even better if you reheat it after frozen as the spices get a chance to ‘mature’.
Christina
Absolutely fantastic recipe! So so delicious ! I like making a bunch and having some dinner then take the leftovers to work the next day. Must try more of your recipes.thank you!!
Ali
My 2.5 year old and I adore this recipe. I double the spices, add veggies like sweet potatoes and cauliflower, and serve with rice. It’s so good (and easy to make)!!
Linda
Great recipe, I doubled the spices quantity to make it stronger but it’s absolutely great. Also made naan bread using your recipe. A winner!
Perry Martin
I make this often. One of the best Dhal recipes I’ve found. Wonderful with heirloom tomatoes and poblano peppers.
Ashleigh
Amazing and fool proof. It has so much flavour I want to eat the whole pan right now!
Lee
My first attempt at making Dahl was a success thanks to this wonderful recipe. And that coming from a meat eater!
Melanie Burger
I added a diced jalapeno for some extra heat but made it otherwise as written. This was such a delicious recipe and came together so easily, I will definitely be making it again (and again and again!).
Sonia
I loved this so vibrant, rich and delicious. This is sure to become a comfort food favorite.
Kerry
Delicious! Cooked for a friend who is a big Dahl fan and she loved it. Thanks!
Leo Lin
Fantastic recipe, packed full of flavour and quick to make.
Had previously made the naan bread which turned out great so when looking for a dhal recipe and saw a recipe on the same site, thought would try it.
Served with the naan, family loved it.
K
Delicious
Stuart Selkirk
Made this a coupla times, adding a tin of rinsed black beans. Really tasty and easily. Thanks.
John
Tastes amazing, can’t get enough!
Emily
Do you think replacing the stock with more coconut milk would be good?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Emily
I think that might make it a little too creamy for my liking, but if you like it creamier then try it and let me know how it goes! 🙂
mandy
Holy moly, this is seriously the best dhal I’ve ever tasted! Had to leave out the chilli because of the child who can’t tolerate it, but it was still amazing. Will be making again and again and again.
Sherri Cudnik
Delicious!
Petra
Can I skip mustard seeds and coriander seeds? I don’t have these at home. And are these spicy? As I don’t like spicy foods.
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Petra
It’s fine to skip those. They’re not spicy, they just make the dahl more fragrant. But if you don’t have them then just leave them out. I hope you enjoy it!
Gemma
Such a simple recipe and tastes really good.
Leora
I have been living off this amazing recipe the whole winter and always have some frozen for a lentil emergency! I was determined to find a good recipe after I was ordering red dhal as my lunch at the office daily, and thinking with a little effort I could save some of that cash. This far exceeded my expectations and everyone said it beat the restaurant’s. I was even more excited that I finally cooked some legumes that are well seasoned – Indian spicing always seems to evade me. Well done!
Lorraine Allin
Made your Red Lentil Dahl and your Turmeric Roasted Cauliflwer at the weekend for a group of friends who came to lunch. What delicious recipes! The coconut in the Dahl added a soothing dimension to my curry and the cauliflower was a fabulous accompanying dish. I shall certainly be making these dishes again … and again, etc.! Thank you!
Meghan
Made this today and it was so delicious! Really tastes like authentic Dahl, something I never thought I could achieve at home. I ended up using an immersion blender at the end to make everything ever smoother and it was so delicious. Replaced spinach with cilantro as well. I’ll definitely be making this way more often!
Erin
Has anyone tried freezing this recipe? Just the Dahl, not the rice or naan. Thank you! I can’t wait to make this.
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Erin, I freeze this all the time and it freezes really well! I often keep a stash of this lentil dahl in the freezer for quick emergency meals.
Emily
Loved this recipe and so did my husband and 18 month old son! I will be making this again and again and again. Thanks for sharing. I have a big batch in the freezer, do you defrost it, or reheat from frozen?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi, I’m so pleased you all liked it!
I only recently got a microwave, so now I defrost it in that. Previously I let it defrost in the fridge for the day and then heated it in a pan in the evening.
Erin
Thank you so much! This is going to be a staple as we move to a Whole Foods plant based way of eating. Thank you!
Joanne
I just made this and all the comments are so justly deserved – it was my first time making Dahl and this recipe is phenomenal! I didn’t use a full can of coconut milk and I substituted 1TBL spoon tomato paste for the canned tomatoes (as I didn’t have any) and forgot the spinach and still amazing. Loved it. Glad I found your site!
Summer Struve
Perfect, my hubby and I loved this dish. We made our own naan and it is perfect for at least two meals each.
Charlotte
Such a brilliant dhal recipe, every other I’ve tried have been bland but this was fantastic. Also super quick, cheap and easy to make. Great flavours but not spicy, even my 9 month old loved it! Will definitely be making a double batch next time.
Alison
I just wanted to thank you for your recipes, so easy to follow and no “fancy” ingredients ☺ I made the red lentil dahl and naan bread , loved both (I’m not vegetarian but with recipes like this I may be converted )
Sally
I’ve just made a triple batch of this – will feed us for the whole week 😀
I did a double batch of the baked pakoras to go with them, but I put onions and peas in this time.
Thanks for the recipes – they are definitely going to become regulars in our house. It’s already the second time I’ve made them in a week.
Lorraine
This is by far the tastiest and best dhal I have ever had. Definitely our go to meal, totally delicious and so easy to make. Thank You!
Micheline
Just made this for lunch. Put in a whole chilli by mistake! Absolutely delicious, gorgeous consistency. It’s going in my recipe book. Thank you!!!!!!
Kate Hackworthy
I’m so glad that you liked it!! Thanks for coming back to tell me 🙂
Karen
This recipe was the nicest vegetarian dish I’ve EVER tasted!!
Will definitely be making this again!!
Kate Hackworthy
I’m so pleased! Thanks so much for coming back to let me know that you loved the dahl!
John Ashby
DO you soak the Lentils beforehand to soften them? Thanks in advance?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi, no there’s no need to pre-cook the red lentils. I hope you enjoy the recipe!
Kate Hackworthy
I mean there’s no need to soak! 🙂
Alison
Made this yesterday – super simple and quick, tastes amazing and will be a regular addition to my weekly meals. Thank you.
Jackie
best ever. i added a 1/2 tsp extra of garam masala seasoning and 1/4 tsp extra chili pepper flake (i like heat) and 1 tsp coconut sugar. recipe is perfect as is, these extras were just to satisfy my own tastebuds.
Ang
This is the best daal I’ve ever made.
Perfect blend of sweet, spicy and filling
Thank you!
Sharron
Absolutely delicious! Very easy and full of flavor, I will be making this again, such a cheap and healthy dish.
Natalie
The comments on this recipe sound a little too good to be true, it’s just another dahl, right? Wrong. It’s the best damn dahl you’ll ever eat. The best. Trust me. After just one mouthful my partner turned to me and asked if we could add this into our regular rotation.
I even cheated a little using what I had on hand, substituting ground spices when whole seeds were called for. Still amazingly delicious.
Chris
Just made this for the first time, substituting the coconut milk for 150 ml olive oil and about 250ml soya milk (the other half is coconut AND gluten intolerant, which can be fun!) – the results are absolutely delicious!
This one is going in the book 🙂
PH
I usually cook dhal “free flow”. Today I followed your recipe to a T, and I must say, it is delicious, smells heavenly. I did not have any coconut milk but added shredded unsweetened coconut. Thank you!
Carol
I made this for first time yesterday and kept leftovers in fridge for this evening. So tasty! And even more so on second night. I’m really just learning to cook and was so happy to find it tasted better than any dahl I’ve had before. Thank you! I’ll be exploring your other recipes now!
Maria
This dhal is divine! So easy to make & deliciously healthy!
Lisa
Very nice – very good for batch cooking as a uni student. Only difference is I cook it for longer as I like it mushy!
Meliana
I’ve just made it…. oh my God…. amazing!
Etak
What words do this justice? Delicious, phenomenal, simple and vegan 💚💚💚 I have just made this ( I only had one onion so added extra spices.) and it’s really really delicious, I don’t normally comment on recipes but this deserves one, thank you so much and I can’t wait to try out some of your other recipes.
This is far better than my favourite Dahl from our local Indian restaurant, and I love that 💚💚💚
Kate Hackworthy
Wow, thank you for such a lovely comment!
Ioana
The dahl tastes like the one I eat in indian restaurants, it’s really good! Thanks!
Mark pyrah
I have never been happy with any dahl i have made until now .great recipe
Elizabeth
This is absolutely delicious!
Diana
Such a tasteful dish and recipe! Made it for the first time in my life and it was very easy to follow your guidance! It was a bit liquidy but I think the lentils will absorb it. It will be my signature meal now! Oh yes so excited
Ren
I’ve cooked this twice in one week!! Served with a cheeky home made chutney and pappadums. New fav. <3
Cassandra
Delicious! Rave reviews from Hubby too! Will definitely be making this again. Thanks for the share!
Kelly
I was wondering what the size can of coconut milk is?
thanks
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Kelly
It’s a 400ml/14oz can. Typical household can size. I hope that helps!
Amanda Hibbs
Yum!
Tara
This was amazing 🙂
Jules
Outstanding…absolutely delicious….tried many dhal recipes and nothing is a touch on this one. Thankyou.
Rebecca Harris
Very easy. Very tasty
Karen Harper
Absolutely delicious!! Perfect combination of spices.
Crystal
I have enver heard of this. It sounds great that it can last for 4-5 days in the fridge, so you can make a large batch of it.
Rebecca Smith
I haven’t had a dhal in so long, yours looks so delicious! Definitely going to have to give your recipe a try!
Hannah
Indian food is my favorite and this looks very tasty. I would love to try this
Lilinha
Such a delicious recipe, I love how quick it takes to make such a tasty dish! 🙂
Alisar
Absolutely delicious! I put in a whole bag of fresh spinach and a handful of chopped coriander at the end, but other than that followed the recipe exactly, and will definitely make again – even my very fussy 4 year old loved it and wants it again tomorrow (but with the spinach picked out – she did not approve of my heavy handedness with the green stuff!) This recipe is a keeper!
Kate Hackworthy
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s funny, but considering all the spices and flavours in this daal, lots of people say young kids love it!
MELANIE EDJOURIAN
This sounds like a great recipe. I really like dahl and should make it far more often.
rebecca
I love dahl, this was delicious, easy, and totally tasty. thanks!
Lisa | Garlic & Zest
I just love all the spices for this dal — I’ve never made dal before, but your recipe seems very accessible. Can’t wait to give it a try.
Petra
I’ve never attempted making dahl before. Its really good and healthy.
Dannii
This is one of my favourite autumn comfort foods and Avery loves it too. Such a good veggie protein dish.
Jill
I love recipes that are tried and true. Bonus that this is so healthy. I’ll have to give it a try!
Kelly Anthony
My husband loves curry and I can’t wait to make this for him. I also love that it is simple and quick.
michelle twin mum
I often make lentil dahl but we tend to have it as a side dish along with a sweet potato and spinach curry. Gosh my mouht is watering now, this looks so good. Mich x
Jemma
I love a dahl recipe and this one looks so easy to recreate and I bet it tastes amazing too!
Julie Evink
Just made this tonight and it was amazing! Can’t wait to make it again!
Jennifer Laughlin
I’ve been in love with dahl ever since college and this 30 minute recipe is amazing! Thanks!
Claire
So delicious and easy to make!
I used half the coconut milk (lower fat version) and it still tasted amazing.
Thanks so much for this recipe. Bookmarking this page for the next time I’m craving some hearty lentils 🙂
greg
Simply amazing and tasty. Thank You
Megan
Hi. How many grams in a serving?
Lee
You’ve probably already made this so info for anyone else.
Out of the full pan I made I got 6 portions weighing 215g each.
Janet
Best dahl recipe by far. Super easy, quick, and tasty. Can this be frozen?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Janet. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it! Yes, it can be frozen. I always make a huge batch and keep it on hand in my freezer for quick meals.
Lisa
Wow! Just finished eating this and it was fantastic! Really delicious. I made it as written and I loved it. Will definitely look forward to having it a lot. Thanks!
Dora
Very Yummy I cooked this one for dinner. We normally used another reciper but i think I will switch to this one now. Many Thanks
Emma
This Dhal looks delicious, I can’t wait to make it. Can you use light coconut milk instead of full fat?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Emma, light should still work just fine. I hope you enjoy it!
parsi
i have made a number of dhals searching for that elusive something – and this just about hits the spot! i made a few adaptions – i added more spices particularly cumin,more chilli and curry leaves and less coconut milk – and i lov it !!!!!
Sophie
INSANELY good. Just made a batch (again) to eat throughout the week for lunches. Yum!
Madi
This looks like such a great meal! I have to give it a try!
Jacqueline Meldrum
This is very similar to my dal so I know how good it tastes. We have it most weeks, just with some toasted wholemeal pitta bread. Such a comforting dish and my wee boy loves it.
Brian Jones
I love dhal, such a great simple meal, loving the flavours you have got going on here!
Natalie
Dahl is my top favorite dish in Indian cuisine and yours look absolutely delicious! I can smell it through the screen, perfect for dinner!
Val Davis
My first Dahl and I love it. Used my instant pot and it was done really quick. Will make frequently.
Nadia
Super duper tasty!! Made a big batch for myself and left overs for 2 days. I served with mangetout (bit strange but had no rice) and some warm naan bread. Will definitely be making this dish again!
Benedetta Fabris
Hi, i want to try this recipe tonight! Looks delicious! Can I sub the coconut milk for rice or soy milk?? I don’t have it on hand!
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Benedetta
I’ve never tried this recipe with anything other than canned coconut milk. I like the flavour the coconut milk gives to the recipe and it’s thicker than rice or soy milk. I’d be tempted to wait and get a can of coconut milk, but if you try it with rice or soy milk please let me know if it works 🙂
Lisa
I have done similarly with soya milk and it does work well. I put a little coconut oil over the rice and fry the onions in it too. You get the flavour with few calories.
Sarah
Made this for the first time tonight. So quick and easy and we all loved it! Brilliant recipe!
Janice
Mmmmm! Delicious, keeping this recipe as it’s a winner, thank you so much!
Ab
Sized*
Ab
How much exactly is 1 can of tomatoes and coconut? I feel like this is probably obvious but I always see 2 or 3 different aides cans :/
Kate Hackworthy
Hi, the usual size of cans is 400g/15 oz. Hope that helps!
Ab
Thanks! 🙂
Steph Dorington
Just made this tonight! We all loved it. Had it with naan and rice.
Karen
This Dahl was really delicious and even better heated up the next day.
Lydia Preston
Delicious. Will make again (and again!)
Suzanna
Thanks for thhe recipe. I made it again last night and the whole family really like it. Made double to keep some in the freezer.
Tamara
This was very tasty, thank you for the recipe. I had it with rice and fine green beans on the side.
Bintu | Recipes From A Pantry
Dhal is one of the things I dont make enough. I really should since I love it.
Léonie
Thank you so much for this recipe. Delicious! I was so happy that I cooked for 4 and enjoyed it more than once 🙂
Btw, it also works in combination with baked potatoes….
Stella
After reading this recipe I immediately want to encoba, because it looks very tasty …
Ragan
Just finished making and eating this and it was SO yummy!! Looked just like your photos too which I thought was pretty impressive haha <3 This will be my new favourite go-to dahl recipe.
It’s a 5/5 from me!
helena
Do you soak your lentils before rinsing/draining them? as I know if not they absorb a lot of liquid…
please let me know! thank you 🙂 x
Kate Hackworthy
Hi Helena, no need to soak them first. I hope you enjoy the recipe.
Tessa D'Souza
Are you using cooked lentils?
Kate Hackworthy
Hi, no, just use uncooked. They’ll cook in the dahl. Enjoy!
Michiko
his is one of the best recipes I have come cross in recent years. It is so simple but so tasty.
Sean
The best Dahl I’ve ever eaten was absolutely delicious
Claire @foodiequine
This is totally up my street. Have bookmarked to make at my next curry night. Love your pot too. I have a Pumpkin Staub.
Cathy @ Planet Veggie
I haven’t made dahl for ages! Actually, make that years. I remember the first time I made it I didn’t think it would be all that as it’s so simple but it was flipping gorgeous.
Becca @ Amuse Your Bouche
Dal is one of my favourite quick dinners – so healthy, and cheap too! This one sounds absolutely delicious.
Ashleigh Harvey
This sounds super yummy!
I may have to make some of this for when baby comes (due tomorrow)
Kate Hackworthy
Woah! Congratulations!!
Camilla @FabFood4All
Your dhal looks amazing and has reminded me to make dhal again which is one of hubby’s favourite foods and he would love your addition of tomatoes here (another favourite)! Thanks for linking to my dish:-)