Spinach Dal
A wholesome and flavorful dal featuring yellow split lentils, fresh spinach, aromatic spices, and a medley of vegetables, garnished with cilantro and served with lemon for extra brightness!
Ingredients
Setup
- 1 cup yellow split lentils (moong dal), rinsed
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Directions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, add the lentils and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are soft and cooked through.
- In a separate pan, add cumin seeds and let them toast. I added a few tablespoons of water after 20 seconds or so prevent burning. Once you can really smell the cumin, it's on to step 4.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add a tablespoon of water if the onions begin to stick.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, curry powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and release their juices.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for a couple of minutes until it wilts down.
- Now, add the cooked lentils to the spinach mixture. Stir well and add salt to taste.
- Let the dal simmer for about 5-10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. If the dal looks too thick, you can add some water to adjust the consistency.
- Once the dal is cooked to your desired consistency, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and squeeze some lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor (optional).
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