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1-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe

Enjoy a comforting bowl of this 1-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe, a healthy dinner that’s rich, creamy, and packed with plant-based protein. Made with green lentils, coconut milk, warming spices, and fresh vegetables, this easy recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, and healthy food ideas. Everything cooks together in one pot, creating a flavorful vegan meal with minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (190 g) dry green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 large carrot (200 g), finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 red or green chili pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) canned coconut milk
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the green lentils thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  3. Cook the onion and carrot for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and chili, and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and coriander, stirring for another minute.
  6. Pour in the lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk, then stir well.
  7. Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 35–45 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. Serve hot with rice or naan and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime if desired.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
  • Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • The dal thickens as it cools, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating if needed.
  • Author: Emmy Carter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-Inspired

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