This got to be the meal that I eat the most, and could basically eat everyday. Whenever I don’t know what to cook, don’t feel like cooking or don’t have a lot of time, this is what we make at home. It is so good, creamy, nourishing and fulfilling and I often have everything already at home. Another thing is that you can add whatever leftover vegetables you still have lying around the house or add none, it doesn’t really matter. As long as you have some onions, garlic, red lentils, spices, tomatoes and coconut milk you are good to go!
Another thing I like so much about this dish is that it is full of lentils and lentils are really good for you! Lentils are number 2 in antioxidant content of all legumes (black beans being number 1, love those too) and have lots of protein, iron and zinc. Eating lentils often may help your cholesterol levels, risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases. And what is even better is that dried lentils cook in no time, compared to other dried beans. Win win!
So, let’s all put dahl on our weekly meal plan, shall we? I know I won't stop at least ..
Coconut & tomato dahl
for 4
2 onions, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 paprika, diced
1 courgette/zucchini, diced
300 g (1 ½ cup) red lentils
1 tsp cumin, cayenne, ground coriander, chilli powder
2 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp curry powder
1 can full fat coconut milk
1 can tomatoes
1 cube of veggie stock (optional)
to serve
rice
fresh cilantro/coriander
fresh greens/spinach
lime wedges
Add the onions to a medium pan with a tbsp of coconut oil or a splash of water. Cook until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the paprika, courgette, red lentils, all the spices and stir well. Add the canned tomatoes, coconut milk, veggie stock (if using) and add 500 ml water (or 2 cups). Stir everything and let it come to a simmer. Simmer everything while you stir every now and then for 20-25 minutes, adding water if necessary (you don’t want it to go dry, otherwise the lentils cannot cook fully). Season with salt & pepper and adjust spices as preferred. When the lentils are done and everything looks super creamy and yummy, serve with rice, fresh cilantro/coriander, spinach and a splash of lime juice.
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